Communication Dept hosts Media Summit 2024, highlights life, innovations in OPM

Date Posted: April 25, 2024 at 02:07 PM


The University’s Communication Department brought Original Pilipino Music in-campus as they brought back the Adamson Media Summit back to campus held April 19 at the University Theater.  

Carrying the theme "Now Streaming: Embracing Innovation in Philippine Music," the 2024 installment of the event drew participation from students under the Communication Department as well as junior and senior high school students. 

“[We chose such theme] since first, it’s aligned with one of the [courses] in the curriculum, which is Music Appreciation and Basic Composition. Ever since kasi, puro media, broadcast [yung topics of the summit], so we thought it was a [fresh] topic na bagay sa time ng event right [at the middle of the midterm exams], kasi it is not that highly cerebral,” Communication Chariperson Ms. Ailene Ayson explained of this year’s theme. 

“[It was also chosen because] we want to support the initiative of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, that wanted to show na hindi lang “hard” sciences yung kailangang mapansin in terms of research funding and attention for discourse and awareness... we also want for the [programs] in the humanities to also be top-of-mind since we really believe that both [sciences and humanities] cannot exist without each other.” 

The summit kicked off with an opening statement by CELA Dean Dr. Gliceria Lunag, who underscored the significance of communication, humanities, and music in both industry and society at large. 

Distinguished speakers took the stage to share their insights and experiences with the attendees. Singer and Musical Director Mr. Michael Melvin Odoemene, delved into his personal journey as a musician and music educator, highlighting the transformative power of music in his life. Mr. Odeomene currently heads the Payatas Kids Choir who are frequent guests of the University during its events. 

Mr. Anthony Go Villanueva, conductor of the Malabon Singers, meanwhile, shared his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to achieving international acclaim, winning the prestigious "Choir of the World" feat with the Kammerchor Manila Choir.  

Their story served as an inspiring testament to the potential of Filipino talent on the global stage. 

Mr. Manolito “Bong” Manalang, Jr., a sound designer and a band member, on the other hand, provided valuable insights into the technical aspects of the music industry, shedding light on the intricacies that shape the production and dissemination of music in today's digital landscape. 

As reflected with the sharing and discussions during the event, Ms. Ayson furthered on the aim of the event, which appeared to have deeper goals aside from its advocacy to foster OPM. 

“Most of the Comm students express themselves in performance or creation so with the inspiration from the experiences of the speakers, they won’t think twice of delving into the arts despite the industry being not that lucrative in the Philippines, since it is really what they want, whether it is a passion project, something that quips their interest or they want to convey a message,” Ms. Ayson said, further explaining the reasoning behind the event. 

The Creative Communications Society of Adamson University along with its home department, organized the said event, which returned to the AdU Theater since their installment last 2019. 

The summit also featured captivating performances by AdU alumni and recording artists, including rapper Jab Flores, Bella Fall, as well as the G-Singers and G-Queens, accompanied by G-dancers. Comm student and singer Ms. April Ann Valde mesmerized the audience with her vocal prowess, showcasing the talent nurtured within Adamson's vibrant community.