Who would ever imagine that Pinamalayan could go this far in terms of broadcast journalism? Once a dream, now a reality. A kiddie TV show we can call our very own is now hitting the airwaves.

In the heart of the province of Oriental Mindoro, a budding group of young journalists is making waves in the field of broadcast journalism. Produced by the Metamorphosis Child Development and Care Center (MCDCC) in the Municipality of Pinamalayan, a local TV program is conceptualized with elementary pupils making up the cast.

“Hoy, Bata!” as what it is called, is the first ever TV magazine show in the province being aired in the local cable TV channel in Pinamalayan, Socorro and Gloria.

The creation of “Hoy, Bata!” paves the way to another achievement that puts Pinamalayan in the pace of unstoppable development. Being the premier TV magazine show in the locality, it greatly contributes to the promotion of Pinamalayan as a booming municipality in Oriental Mindoro. Through the varied episodes that present the diverse culture of Pinamalayan, “Hoy, Bata!” caters to the public’s interest to know what truly makes everyone distinctly Pinamalayeño and Mindoreño as well.

Having young elementary students as members of the show’s cast basically catches the attention of the young audience. It’s primary objective is to educate children for their holistic development. Here, kids can learn good manners, values, and some school lessons from certain topics being tackled in the show each month. However, the program also appeals to adult viewers. A segment on the rights of the child is indeed very informative that parents learn about this very important matter regarding their children. Aside from this, “Hoy, Bata!” has something more to offer. The show also features inspiring stories about notable personalities and interesting events. Every segment of the show fits everyone. It suits the taste of young and adult alike, thus making it the family’s show.

Along with the other members of the cast, I learned many good things by being a part of “Hoy, Bata!” It teaches us how to act in front of the camera, deliver our lines well, and communicate with the audience that we cannot see. We also learn valuable life lessons like determination, perseverance, and dedication. It develops in us a strong will to inspire others through television. With these rewarding experiences, we know that we are several steps closer to success as individuals.

For all these, we extend our deepest thanks to the institutions that make this historical mass media feat happen, the MCDCC and the local government unit of Pinamalayan. To teacher Baby, for giving us this kind of learning experience, to Mayor Fred Hernandez, for recognizing the show as a vehicle in promoting the town’s culture towards peace and progress, and to the Pinamalayeños, for supporting us through viewership, we will forever be grateful. You truly made “Hoy, Bata!” a pride of Pinamalayan.

About the writer: Janille Yna C. Cupiado is one of the main cast of “Hoy, Bata!” leading the “A.N.Y. Know” segment with Ane Marie King and Nicole Castillo. She is the class Valedictorian of Metamorphosis’ Batch 2008. This multi-awarded student journalist, who won her way from the Division all the way to the National Schools Press conference, is the editor-in-chief of MCDCC’s school paper, the Meta Chronicle.