Journalist, ex-UP CMC dean Luis V. Teodoro passes away

Noted journalist and former dean of the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Mass Communication Luis V. Teodoro has passed away, a colleague said on Tuesday morning.

In a tweet, Professor Danilo Arao of the UP College of Mass Communication (UP CMC) said Teodoro, 81, passed away at midnight due to heart attack.

"He was a mentor and a friend. More than that, his stewardship helped produce highly ethical, dedicated journalists," he said.

Teodoro was a journalism professor who served as dean of UP CMC for two terms, or from 1994 to 2000.

In a Facebook post, the UP CMC said Teodoro "was pivotal in fostering academic excellence in our discipline, upholding integrity in the practice of media, and defending our freedoms of the press, speech, and assembly."

According to the Center for Media Freedom & Responsibility (CMFR), Teodoro is recognized for being "a journalist, editor, and journalism educator whose incisive critiques of Philippine media have inspired generations of media practitioners and scholars."

Aside from being a former dean, Teodoro was also known for writing political commentary.

"He shall be missed. Condolences to all of us who believe," said Arao.

The UP CMC said it will hold a service for Teodoro at the Plaridel Hall. Details, it said, will be posted on Facebook.

UP President Angelo A. Jimenez meanwhile hailed Teodoro for being a "passionate advocate for press freedom."

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of former UP College of Mass Communication Dean Luis Teodoro, who was an esteemed human rights activist, newspaper columnist, professor of journalism, and the author of short stories like 'Paper Stars' and 'The Trial of Professor Riesgo.' He was a passionate advocate for press freedom and a tireless defender of the rights of the marginalized. His dedication to his work and his commitment to justice will be remembered and celebrated. His legacy will live on through his students, colleagues, and the many lives he touched," Jimenez said in a statement. —Giselle Ombay/KBK/KG, GMA Integrated News