Multimedia journalist Ron Lopez to lead  Diploma
in Visual Journalism program

His extensive professional background spans over 11 years of experience in both international and local news organizations, having served as a video and text correspondent for Agence France-Presse (AFP), and a multimedia reporter for ABS-CBN. He has also produced work for major outlets including Al Jazeera, CNN, and the Voice of America. 

Most recently, he worked as a visual journalist and presenter for BenarNews, where he pioneered the organization’s first explainer videos.

In his new role, Lopez will be responsible for the recruitment and guidance of both lecturers and students, the preparation of course schedules, and the supervision of on-campus sessions. He will also assist in reviewing course syllabi to ensure they meet the Ateneo and ACFJ standards regarding Asian content and intellectual integrity.

Beyond his reporting, Lopez brings significant leadership and pedagogical experience to the ACFJ. He previously served as a journalism instructor at the Bulacan State University, teaching subjects such as news and feature writing, editorial writing, and media law and ethics. 

His professional affiliations further cement his standing in the industry; he is currently a Board Member of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) and a Director for the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP). He is also recognized as a Fellow of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Media Programme Asia. 

As coordinator, Lopez will act as the bridge between the professional industry and academic excellence, ensuring that the DVJ program remains reflective of current journalistic best practices.

The DVJ program is designed to provide experienced practitioners with theoretical and ethical approaches to journalism. The curriculum consists of four online step-ladder courses on media law and ethics, visual storytelling, and multimedia, and a specialized course.