Explained PH, a HOME of Mentors in the Making

A single spark can ignite a flame, and for me, that spark came in the field of journalism. I was just a quiet kid with a love for words, but something about putting my thoughts on paper and sharing them with others awakened a sense of purpose within me. I didn't know if I was good enough, or if my voice mattered, but Explained PH saw my potential that I didn't know about. With that, my journey as a journalist developed further, fueled by a passion for storytelling and a desire to make a difference.

I joined National Campus Press Olympiad under the News Writing Category (Bracket A) way back in 2021 on a whim, submitting a piece I had felt a familiar goosebump ran through my body, I immediately thought of, “This was exactly the feeling when I first competed in our Division Schools Press Conference last 2019. Lots of thrill with my little knowledge in hand.” I didn't think much of it, assuming that I wouldn't get that ‘goosebump luck’ again to win. Then, the day of the awarding ceremony came, yet there I was, just having a thought of, “At least I tried.” Moments later, the surprise struck my peaceful momentum, I ended up in 10th place. At that moment, I felt like the recognition was just a bonus because the lessons I learned were what mattered the most.

Soon after, Explained PH took notice of my work and reached out to me, inviting me to join their team as a news staffer. I was hesitant at first, unsure if I was ready for such a challenge and if the offer was really true. I immediately thought that they saw something in me that I didn't, and they took me under their wing. This organization was no longer just a place where I found myself; it was a place where I could grow, learn, and contribute.

As the youngest member of the organization at the age of thirteen at that time, I was intimidated at first. I was surrounded by experienced seniors who seemed to know it all. Despite my age and little experience, the organization welcomed me with open arms. They saw potential in me, and they were willing to invest the time and effort to help me grow. I even remember the moments wherein they would tell jokes and humorous sayings in a way that would make me feel included rather than out of place, like their spontaneous hashtag for me that goes, “#ProtectCharmaineAtAllCosts,” which was even paired with one of my pictures. I see this moment as something significant where a place where it all started, stays with me until the end.

Since then, my Explained PH family provided me with a sense of community and belonging. I was surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared my passion for storytelling and my desire to make a difference. Together, we formed a supportive network that encouraged me to take risks and push beyond my comfort zone.

As I began to contribute to the organization, I was struck by the level of guidance and mentorship provided by my seniors, like our Former News Editors Ate Kaela and Kuya Lance. They took me under their wing, offering valuable feedback and constructive criticism that helped me refine my skills and develop my own unique style.

The organization also provided me with countless opportunities to learn and grow. From letting me join workshops and training sessions to news write-ups, I was constantly challenged to push myself and try new things. Through it all, all of them were there to support me, offering guidance and encouragement every step of the way.

One of the most significant ways in which my seniors guided me was by helping me develop my own unique style. Through the organization, I was exposed to a wide range of viewpoints and experiences, and I was encouraged to explore my own opinions. As a result, I began to develop a sense of confidence and self-assurance that has stayed with me to this day as a senior high school student.

They also taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience. As a young journalist, I faced my fair share of rejection and criticism. Nonetheless, my ates and kuyas were always there to encourage me, to remind me that setbacks and failures are an inevitable part of the learning process.

As I look back on my time with the organization, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and appreciation. They have provided me with a foundation in journalism, but more importantly, they gave me the guidance and support I needed to develop my own.

Hence, what's even more remarkable is the transformation I underwent as a result of being part of the organization. I went from being an inexperienced journalist to becoming a mentor to others. I began to help people traverse the highs and lows of the industry by sharing my knowledge and experience with anyone, most notably in the student publication of NU East Ortigas, The Eastside, where I currently serve as the News and Opinion Editor. 

One of my proudest moments was when my online publishing team and I bagged 5th place during the NCR’s Regional Schools Press Conference 2025. It was a testament to the hard work and dedication my team had put into craft, and it was a reminder that Explained PH’s Speak Up Community had been one of our instruments to our success due to its relentless tips and pieces of advice.

The organization was more than just a place to learn and grow, as it was a community, a family, and a home. It was a place where I found my purpose. And as I move forward, I know that the lessons I learned and the guidance I received will stay with me forever.

As the youngest member of the organization, I was given a chance to prove myself, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. My seniors have shown me that age is just a number, and that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

I won’t be closing this chapter of my journey, as I will always be grateful for the experience and the lessons I learned. Thus, I will always cherish the memories and the relationships I formed. I know that I'll always be a journalist, and I know that I'll always be making a difference. Explained PH may be behind me, but its impact will stay with me forever. And as I move forward, I know that I'll always be carrying its legacy with me. I, Charmaine Delos Santos, will always be grateful for the journey that brought me here. Lagi’t lagi, para sa bayan!