Knowledge Channel Honors New ‘Champions for Children, Builders of Tomorrow’ in KCVIP 2025 Graduation
By Rebelyn Beyong
The Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. (KCFI) celebrated a new batch of Filipino children and education advocates as it honored 82 graduates of the Knowledge Channel Volunteer and Internship Program (KCVIP) last October 10, 2025. With the theme “Champions for Children, Builders of Tomorrow," the internship graduation ceremony was held at Powerplant Mall Cinema 8 in Rockwell, Makati City, marking the successful culmination of a year filled with dedicated service and learning.
The graduating class, composed of 73 interns and 9 volunteers from 19 partner schools and universities, was recognized for making significant contributions across various KCFI departments, including learning solutions, platforms and partnerships, resource mobilization.
A call to be builders of tomorrow
In her opening remarks, KCFI President and Executive Director, Rina Lopez, directly addressed the pressing learning crisis in the Philippines, where many young learners lag in reading and math proficiency. She challenged the graduates to see themselves as the answer to the age-old question, "If not you, then who? If not now, then when?"
"Today as I look at you, I see 82 powerful answers. In your eyes is the conviction that says it is us. In your hearts is the urgency that declares the time is now," Lopez stated. She framed their roles not just as “champions for children” but also as "builders of tomorrow," emphasizing that their work in creating educational content helps build a stronger nation founded on enlightened citizens. She thanked them for their hard work and quiet excellence, reminding them, "The seeds of knowledge you planted will become mighty trees, giving shelter to generations of children you may never meet."
Department of Education (DepEd) Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and External Partnerships, Cilette Liboro Co, delivered the keynote address, calling the graduates the "new missionaries of education through television." Drawing from her own two-decade career in media, she highlighted the transformative power of their work. "You may be behind the scenes, but your impact is felt in every classroom that comes to life because of what you do," ASec. Liboro Co affirmed, encouraging them to keep creating with conscience and purpose.
Celebrating a Journey of Growth and Service
The formal proclamation of graduates was led by KCFI Vice President, Edric Calma, who proudly welcomed the interns and volunteers into the KCFI family. "Today we gather not just to mark an ending, but to celebrate a new beginning," he said before recognizing the 73 interns and 9 volunteers who answered the call to become champions for children.
A special segment of the ceremony honored 16 individuals for their exceptional contributions. The Outstanding KCVIP Champions for 2025 are:
Content and Production: Reanne G. Virtudazo, Arabella Kristina G. Apostol, Alec Audric R. Makasakit
Early Childhood Education: Jazmin M. Simbahan, Isabelle Zophia B. Magtibay, Agatha Kate F. Miraflor, Keila Ann L. Cristobal
School and Community Engagement: Jim Nathaniel S. Capiña, Adora D. Pelisco, Niel Christian A. Samar
Platforms: Angelo A. Martinez, Andrea Sophia T. Ochoa, Mark Jester D. Teodosio
Marketing and Communications: Daniela D. Reyes, Ericka Jane H. Llorente, Richi Joy T. Reyes
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, outstanding intern Ericka Jane H. Llorente described her KCVIP experience as a "turning point." She shared, "This experience transformed me as a student, as a professional, and as a future nation builder. I will always carry with me the lesson that the truest form of communication is the one that serves." She ended her heartfelt message with a rallying cry, "To my fellow KCFI graduates, congratulations! Let's continue to be builders of tomorrow... Dito sa KCFI, may K ako, may K tayo, may K ang Pinoy!"
Messages of support also poured in from academic partners, including De La Salle University President, Br. Bernard S. Oca, FSC. He described the graduates' work as a "calling" and a way to rekindle hope in the nation. He led the audience in a powerful chant, "Champion ako! Champion tayo! Champion tayong lahat!" Representatives from iACADEMY and the University of the Philippines-Diliman Department of Family Life and Child Development (FLCD) were also present to support their student-interns.
The ceremony concluded with the induction of the new graduates, led by last year’s outstanding intern and now KCFI Production Assistant, John Lester Limpin, symbolizing the program's success in nurturing future advocates and nation-builders.
The KCVIP, which is now in its eight year, offers internships to high school and college students to gain work experience, develop skills, and contribute to educational projects for Filipino children. The program provides hands-on experience in various fields, including content production, marketing, and research, while developing future leaders for the nation.
Join the Mission!
Are you passionate about education and nation-building? Do you want to become a champion for Filipino children? The KCVIP is looking for you!
Email your portfolio and CV to interns@knowledgechannel.org and martin.sanchez@knowledgechannel.org to apply.