Explained PH unites nat’l youth-led publications with ‘JuanClick’ coalition to amplify digital media advocacies

Adi Joaquim Tolentino

Explained PH has officially launched JuanClick, a national alliance of youth-led online publications across the Philippines, including Informed PH, Insight PH, Astra, Agos, Danggit PH, Pressroom PH, and The Frontman.

The coalition aims to defend truth and digital democracy through collective action by producing contextual content, running grounded campaigns, and fostering a fearless, youth-led media alliance.

Cyree Elisha Pamplona, Community Head of Explained PH and Editor-in-Chief of The Frontman, said in an interview on July 20 that the initiative was formed in response to the worsening spread of disinformation, especially during election periods.

“JuanClick is the national alliance of youth-led publications committed to one goal: safeguarding truth, together,” she said. “It’s powered by young journalists who were brave enough to establish youth-led publications.”

Explained PH, which initiated the coalition, now leads its operations alongside fellow youth media outlets.

“We formed JuanClick out of necessity. During elections, disinformation was everywhere—nakakapagod na,” Pamplona said. “We realized na if we don’t come together now, kailan pa? So we did.”

JuanClick’s website now serves as a central hub for collaboration, resource sharing, and cross-posting among its members, with more initiatives expected in the coming months.

“This is just Day 1,” she added. “We’re launching many campaigns, strengthening local publications, and building capacity para ang kabataan, hindi lang informed, kundi empowered din.”

The group also plans to organize lectures, forums, and joint projects to connect youth journalists and expand their role as digital changemakers.

“Democracy thrives when truth is defended,” Pamplona said. “And truth is best defended when young people, from Luzon to Mindanao, work together not just as watchdogs, but also as changemakers.”

For JuanClick members, the digital space is not just a battleground—it’s a responsibility.

“Kung hindi tayo kikilos, others will shape it for us,” she said. “Information integrity is not just a journalism issue—it’s a youth issue, a democracy issue, a future issue.”