Journalism & Journalists CJJ12 2017 ‘Demonizing’ media

Fake news inflicts more damage in social media

Restoring faith in journalism 23+2 / 33 Cebu Press Freedom Week 25th fete, 33rd year

1984 | Sept. 9-15 1999 | Sept. 19-25 was revived with SunStar as lead managers signed a memorandum The Association of Cebu Journalists, Lead convenor: The Freeman news group. of understanding on valuing public the Cebu Workers’ The convenors’ group institutionalized safety in the coverage of crisis Foundation (Cenewof) and Cebu Cebu Press Freedom Week and 2006 | Sept. 17 to 23 situations. A street in Barangay News Correspondents Club organized agreed that each of the three Lead convenor: Cebu Daily News Sambag II, was named after the Cebu Press Week celebration take turns in leading the CJJ2 was launched, and Lens held a sportswriter Manuel N. Oyson Jr. to remind the public and the press activity every year. photo exhibit. SunStar produced the that the freedom it enjoys must be documentary “Killing Journalists.” 2012 | Sept. 15-22 protected from all threats. 2000 | Sept. 17-23 Lead convenor: Cebu Daily News Lead convenor: Cebu Daily News 2007 | Sept. 15-22 Firsts for the celebration included 1988 | Sept. 4-10 The Cebu Federation of Beat Lead convenor: SunStar Cebu the Globe Cebu Media Excellence The Council of Cebu Media Leaders Journalists was organized. SunStar debuted its “Reaching Awards, and the launch of an e-book (CCML)—organized to promote out to future journalists” forum version for the CJJ7 magazine. the development of media as a 2001 | Sept. 16-22 with Masscom students from Cebu profession, upgrade its practice Lead convenor: SunStar Cebu universities. Within the year, Orlacsan 2013 | Sept. 14-21 and police its ranks—led the now Initiated by Cenewof, a city street St. in City was named after Lead convenor: SunStar Cebu renamed Cebu Press Freedom Week was to be renamed after journalist sports editor Orlando C. Sanchez. Forums on the Magna Carta for celebration. Pedro D. Calomarde, but City Philippine Internet Freedom and approval came only on Jan. 9, 2002. 2008 | Sept. 20-27 the problems of schools’ journalism Dec. 3, 1992 In 1995, a street had been renamed Lead convenor: The Freeman programs were held, along with the CCML passed a resolution opposing after Concepcion G. Briones. The “Journalists at Work” photo annual sports challenges and film the holding of any congressional exhibit was held, and the CCPC- showing. interference with media. 2002 | Sept. 15 to 21 led documentary “Access Denied: Lead convenor: The Freeman Journalists’ Lament, News Sources’ 2014 | Sept. 20-27 1994 | Sept. 18-24 The first working session of the Plea” was screened. Lead convenor: Cebu Press Freedom For the second time, CCML organized Cebu Citizens-Press Council was Week Inc. Board the Press Week celebration. held, along with a pooled broadcast 2009 | Sept. 19-26 The CCPC opposed the proposed on press freedom, and a Globe Lead convenor: Cebu Daily News amendments to City Ordinance 1408 1995 | Oct. 22-28 Telecom photo exhibit on 18 media A street was named after post-war expanding the powers of the Cebu A major feature of the celebration personalities. journalist Jose G. Logarta in Talisay City Anti-Indecency Board. Streets was a reverse interview with news City. Forums focused on the automated in Argao town were renamed after sources. 2003 | Sept. 21 to 27 polls. Sidelights were an exhibit on journalists Wilfredo Veloso, Cerge Lead convenor: Cebu Daily News photojournalism, film screening, book Remonde and Clod Bajenting. 1996 Articles on Cebu journalism’s icons sale and press freedom run. Stung by criticism about legitimacy were published in the local English- 2015 | Sept. 19-26 and motives, CCML cancelled language dailies. An exhibit planned 2010 | Sept. 18-25 Lead convenor: Cebu Daily News the Cebu Press Freedom Week for the week was instead held on the Lead convenor: SunStar Cebu Elections and the Internet were celebration. inauguration of the MBF Cebu Press On the initiative of CCPC, an exhibit the main themes. The Globe Media Center on Oct. 25. dedicated to Cebu media, the CJJ Excellence Awards was expanded to 1997 | Oct. 5 to 11 Gallery, formally opened at the cover the . To prevent non-media groups from 2004 | Sept. 19-25 Museo Sugbo, the documentary exploiting the affair, Cebu’s Working Lead convenor: SunStar Cebu “Corruption of Media: The Cebu 2016 | Sept. 17-24 Media, instead of CCML, organized A theme song on journalists having Setting” was screened, and the Cebu Lead convenor: The Freeman the affair. The affair was limited to diverse thoughts but sharing one life City Government reinstalled the Presidential Communications legitimate members of media outfits. and dream was produced. The “Cebu marker recalling the 1961 murder Secretary Martin Andanar and Journalism: the People and the Times of The Republic News editor and Presidential Assistant-Visayas Michael 1998 | Sept. 20-26 (CJJ)” was published. A street was columnist Antonio Abad Tormis for his Dino were among the speakers Cebu’s Working Media agreed to named after journalist Jose Ma. del Mar. corruption exposes. during the celebration. A candle hold the celebration on the week lighting at the with Sept. 21 in it, to commemorate 2005 | Sept. 18-24 2011 | Sept. 17-24 honored fallen journalists. the 1972 declaration of Martial Law, Lead convenor: The Freeman Lead convenor: Cebu Press Freedom which had led to flagrant violations After a hibernation of three years, the Week Inc. Board 2017 | Sept. 16-23 against press freedom. Cebu Citizens-Press Council (CCPC) Police officials and Cebu media Lead convenor: SunStar Cebu STATEMENT OF PURPOSE CJJ magazine, CJJ CJJ12 gallery, CJJ books Cebu Journalism Expanding, and rounding a circle, is CJJ Books at Cebu City Public Library. All committed to chronicle the times of & Journalists Cebu media: help retrieve scraps of the past, record progress Volume Twelve 2017 and changes of the present, even as it seeks to inspire and embolden the shaping of the industry’s future.

CONCEPT/OVERALL SUPERVISION CONTRIBUTORS journalism at St. Theresa’s College and PACHICO A. SEARES the . PACHICO A. SEARES EDITING Founding editor of three daily newspapers KARLON N. RAMA CHERRY ANN T. LIM and this yearbook, Seares is also co- Coordinater of the secretariat of the founder of the Cebu News Workers Peace and Conflict Journalism Network’s PHOTOGRAPHY Foundation, executive director of the Cebu Philippine office, Rama conducts conflict- ALEX A. BADAYOS Citizens-Press Council, and public and sensitive journalism training under LENS standards editor of SunStar Cebu. Pecojon’s Peace and Conflict Journalism Program for Southeast Asia. PAGE DESIGN NINI B. CABAERO RIGIL KENT R. YNOT The editor-in-chief of SunStar Network Other contributors to the CJJ12: Exchange (Sunnex) was the Sandra Burton– MAYETTE Q. TABADA, columnist of COVER DESIGN Nieman Fellow at Harvard University, SunStar Cebu and educator; BOB LIM, JOSUA S. CABRERA where she completed an approved course commercial photographer for 30 years; of study, during school year 2013–2014. LAUREEN MONDOÑEDO-YNOT, LOGISTICS managing editor of SunStar Network MICHELLE P. SO MILDRED V. GALARPE Exchange; OGHERTY B. LOPEZ, staff A digital immigrant and defender of true reporter of SunStar Superbalita [Cebu]; ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT and good journalism, Galarpe is the online and from SunStar Cebu: CHERRY ANN ROSE G. YUMOL sales head of SunStar Publishing Inc. and T. LIM, managing editor for special pages former managing editor of Sunnex, the and features; GINGGING ALEDO- new media department of SSPI. CAMPAÑA, news editor; LINETTE RAMOS-CANTALEJO, assistant news JOEBERTH M. OCAO editor; JOVY TAGHOY-GERODIAS, The online editor and assistant news neighborhood editor; and KEVIN A. editor of The Freeman, Ocao also teaches LAGUNDA, staff reporter.

With the support of

Cebu 2017 Foreword BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE

In the time of fakery, which media to trust

Attempts to repress media are usually foiled by defense of free speech and free press. Yet how can free speech be justified if media cannot be held accountable for abuse or excess? Mainstream media has long accepted the limits on free speech and free press. Libel laws provide for both criminal and civil liability. Punishment for contempt curbs disrespect to the courts and legislative bodies lawfully exercising the power of inquiry. Industry and individual in-house rules on ethics restrain offensive behavior that falls short of a crime. In sum, media is regulated not just by the state. Practitioners submit to scrutiny by their respective media outlets, their peers and their public. Yes, their readership or audience, which, as consumers, may stop reading or watching the media they can no longer trust. The setup has worked for mainstream media, print and broadcast, but maybe not for online media, particularly the sectors that have no rules and no gatekeepers that curb misconduct. Writers in mainstream Fingers point to social media, whose platform managers are still scrambling how media are named and to keep toxic messages of anger and hate away from the conversation. Mainstream media police their own ranks. Social media managers are struggling, almost helpless identified. They don’t or unwilling to supply filters in the internet that, by its concept, is totally free but, as give news or opinion in essential civility sinks in, should not be. the shadows or, in the light, don’t wear hoods. Immediacy of access and posting. And anonymity. Those give the edge in internet Complainants know whom communication but they’re also the bane. The voices are quick and bold but because and where to look for. And they are not identified, they ignore restraints that keep the regular media careful with each news organization the facts in the news and the logic in their commentaries. vouches for what it Spewing out and circulating bogus information and unleashing diatribe recklessly publishes and answers are usually not impeded in the internet. Masked, faceless, or using false names, authors for its consequences. No can peddle ignorance, often aimed to promote hate and violence, at times for profit. media can seek to be free The sense of impunity among the offenders is inevitable. unless it can hold itself In this era of fakery, mainstream media must protect and nurture its greatest accountable. strength: its capacity, skill and shared value in getting at the truth. It is vulnerable to mistakes but it has great respect for the facts.

FOUR WORDS Before You Leave the Page

Trad-media holds itself accountable. PACHICO A. SEARES (Seares is executive director of the Cebu Citizens-Press Council and chairman of the board of Cebu Press Freedom Week Inc. and Cebu Media Legal Aid Inc.) The cover contents

6 ‘Demonizing’ news media

9 Fake news inflicts more damage in social media. What can be done

12 Restoring faith in journalism

16 Newsroom tales

17 Covering Duterte after Year One

23 Slice of (media) life

24 Revisiting Maneja: Was media ethics observed?

Wanted: G.I.s 28 Are reporters prepared to cover (Genuine Items) gunfights?

There’s no gray scale to redeem fakes. 31 Killing Journalists: When law The tamest synonym for fake is perhaps simulacrum, and order and justice system fail which means an imitation or substitute. Yet, simulacrum still implies something unsatisfactory, the kindest putdown for fake. 34 What may kill a media forum Applied to news and journalism, fake stirs up a cauldron of controversies. As illustrated by multiple award-winning Josua 35 Jess Vestil: ‘Renaissance man’ Cabrera, art department chief of SunStar Cebu, fake news poisons audiences’ minds with half-truths, unsubstantiated 37 information, and maliciously altered facts. New bosses in the newsroom Trolls and bots are not the worst creatures to crawl out of fake news. It’s the stigma insidiously associating fake 40 Frontliners: What sometimes news with journalism. If you don’t like the news, blame fake news. If the news happen behind the scene does not fit your biases, blame fake news. If you prefer to borrow opinions and your leader blames the @#%! media for everything he has not achieved, blame fake news. 45 Cebu Citizens-Press Council: The 2017 issue of Cebu Journalism and Journalists Reaching out wants to cut the vicious cycle and remind every citizen, every stakeholder of these four essential points, excerpted from the “Truth Text” published by The New York Times: 47 Of readership and citizenship: “The truth is under attack. The truth is worth defending. A library’s tale The truth requires taking a stance. The truth is more important now than ever.” 49 Still photos in the age of the video Mayette Q. Tabada 53 The working press 6 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 ‘DEMONIZING’ NEWS MEDIA By Pachico a. seares CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 7

In the , President Duterte’s More than the usual sniping at the Philippine Daily Inquirer and ABS-CBN doesn’t come close to Trump’s hostile moves. In Cebu, Mayor devices, the new strategy is Tomas Osmeña’s tirade on “unfriendly” media isn’t as fierce as in the past, notably during the election season. The Trump more insidious and yet more style of in-your-face bullying of reporters and shotgun blasts at media: those we apparent: to erode public have yet to see in our setting. SHOOTING DOWN THE LIE. Trump has repeatedly used trust in any “unfriendly” 2 the retort “fake news” to any adverse story, at the same time smearing media and its content by the news outlet. It’s his shield against any accusation, a defense that politicians elsewhere in the world might use in due branding them “fake” time. Or variations of ramming down the lie. Under the same precept about repeating and repeating a false accusation, the lie ublic officials and people in other nothing but high praise for himself, calling is wrapped in the denial, which offers no sectors that regularly deal with itself the “real news,” as opposed to “fake specifics. media have little love lost for news” of independent media. The sheer Fact-checking helps dispute the lie but journalists and the institution gall of switching labels, sticking the honest at the same time promotes it. Researchers theyP represent. label on himself. tell us that online repetition of the lie is Particularly when media does its job of Obviously, it’s part of the multi-pronged much higher than exposure of the facts informing the public and shaping public attack on regular media in the various refuting it. opinion. Expectedly, public figures try platforms that report the news honestly. As to protect their image and interest by they praise media outlets that report only MEDIA THAT SUPPORTS pushing their own version of the story. news and views they like, they brand the rest YOUR BELIEF. What would “Managing” the news has long become as bogus. And spread only their “truths.” 3 happen if people consume only an art with publicists using various Their truths, of course, are what they the media that conform to their views and devices to influence flow of information. want people to believe even if they are beliefs? In return, their media outlets of Ranging from p.r. techniques to pulling false in the real world. “Alternative facts,” choice would bring only news and opinion strings of influence. From subtle or they say, as if a lie could become true with their readers want, shutting out material outright bribery to dirty tactics such a different name. that give the other view. as to sic block-timers and trolls on The threats, a few more sinister and The base constituents of Trump are “hostile” journalists, or in some localities, imminent than others, seek to undermine an example. In serving that market, such physically eliminate them. the most basic function of the press: to news outlets as Fox News and Breitbart But the new threat goes beyond all inform and engage in a conversation and News dish out only content that promotes that. test “facts” by verifying sources and actual the right-wing ideology of their audience. The fresh goal is to destroy trust in reality. Balance, accuracy, fairness are out the the fourth estate and its product. By window. Their audience hears only one portraying media as “enemy of the people” ATTACK ON ‘HOSTILES.’ side, its side. How does that work for an that thwarts “progress and change” and 1 Targets are mainstream media informed citizenry? defends status quo. By tapping discontent although in the United States-- Larger than the threat of getting fake and rage of the underprivileged so they where President Trump popularized the news is a public accepting it with the will vent it on media. By sapping media term “fake news” and “fake media”--those knowledge, or without the care, that it is of its strength: its credibility as source of in his crosshairs are the “liberal” media: false. facts and logic on events and issues and newspapers, TV and cable networks and Cebu media has operated on the as watchdog of people’s liberties and the digital news sites critical of him. News belief that its audience wants the full country’s institutions. outlets with conservative or “right” and correct story. After almost three They would substitute the regular leanings and pro-Trump media such as decades of consuming media that media’s content, produced under Fox News, New York Post and Washington were unabashedly partisan, Cebuanos, standards of independent journalism, Times are in a sense also mainstream. But starting in the late ‘60s, have been getting with their own version stripped of they routinely defend and laud Trump-- “independent” news and information. anything that would expose their and they’ve been spared in his diatribes. misdeeds and omissions. U.S. President What’s going on in the U.S. should tell ‘POLICING’ THE INTERNET. Donald Trump uses with his us what could happen in other countries As internet practice feeds a steady stream of abuse against where free speech and free press is 4 demonstrates, regulators can media and a video on Facebook that gives guaranteed by the Constitution. do little to make online writers behave 8 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

like mainstream journalists. Internet strengths are its multi-platform access, immediacy, and anonymity and absence of filters. Which are also its bane, when it comes to cracking down on fake news. The recent fruitless hunt for the “administrator” of the website “Cebu Flash Report” to account for its bogus bomb story that caused panic among Lapu-Lapu City residents, tells us that online regulation is far from satisfactory. Mainstream media can be useful in promptly correcting false stories. With its online presence, newspapers and broadcast stations can be the reliable source on settling questions of fact and dubious claims in bogus news on social media.

The best foil: staying as the more reliable media

he consumer can easily identify and locate the regular media. Its writers and editors don’t use aliases and can be held Taccountable for what they write. They are trained in the standards of verifying a story: whether it has the earmarks of truth or is partly or totally bogus. It has a mechanism for prompt correction. It explains and clarifies whatever mistakes it makes. Which to trust then: A bastard of a story that’s peddled anonymously or by a masked writer in a ghost website? Or an authentic story from a legitimate news organization, print or online, that hangs its name with its product and nurtures its reputation day by day through the years? A no-brainer. Yet, increasingly media content churned out by writers who operate in another universe or haven’t come out of their grandma’s basement manage to mislead the public. The glut of fake news should impel regular media to be more diligent in (a) spotting bogus stories of others and (b) avoiding mistakes in their own stories. CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 9

Fake news inflicts MORE damage in social media. what can be done

The post stated that people panicked and 1,308 comments. By Mildred V. Galarpe after it was confirmed that a bomb Both posts appeared on CFR’s had been found in front of a store in Facebook page. Both headlines—“bomb Lapu-Lapu City. It showed a picture of alert” and “Canine Distemper Virus policemen on the street. Outbreak in Lilo-an Cebu” are overly On July 4, 2017, Cebu In 27 minutes, 2,600 Facebook users emotional and immediately catch the Flash Report (CFR) posted shared the 170-character post, 3,800 reacted attention of readers. on its Facebook page a bomb and 1,000 more commented. Owners of the Not a single source or official has been page deactivated the account later. named as the source of the statements and alert in Basak, Lapu-Lapu Barely a month after the bomb alert declarations made in both posts. City. incident, active again on Facebook and No byline or author was indicated sporting a new look, CFR posted about a in the two posts, except for CFR, which canine distemper outbreak in the town of appears to be a community of netizens. Liloan. Yuri Beluan, Lapu-Lapu City legal The post has been shared 1,970 times officer, and Liloan Mayor Christina Garcia since it was posted on Aug. 3, 2017. There Frasco in separate posts on Facebook were 1,348 users who reacted on the post called the posts “fake news.” 10 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

The “falseness” of content comes in different shades. Claire Wardle, research director of First Draft, identified seven types. These are 1) satire or parody - no intention to cause harm but has the potential to fool, 2) misleading content - misleading use of information to frame an methods to trace the production, issue or individual, 3) imposter content circulation and reception of fake news - when genuine sources are impersonated, online. It is a project of the Public Data 4) fabricated content - new content is 100 Lab with support from First Draft. percent false, designed to deceive and do In the case of CFR, it currently has harm, 5) false connection - when headlines, 387,650 Facebook users who liked the visuals or captions don’t support the page and 392,535 who are following it. content, 6) false context - when genuine The Philippines is the world’s sixth Beluan called on CFR to “not content is shared with false contextual largest country with active Facebook users immediately post unverified details on information, and 7) manipulated content of 63 million as of April 2017, according Facebook to avoid panic.” - when genuine information or imagery is to wearesocial.com.sg, a global consulting The bomb alert post came at a time when manipulated to deceive. agency on social thinking. Cebu was hosting an Association of Southeast First Draft is a non-profit coalition Wearesocial’s Digital in 2017: Southeast Asian Nations-related event and at the height of more than 100 newsrooms and social Asia, a study of the internet, social media, of the Maute skirmishes in Marawi City. networks and more than 35 journalism and mobile use throughout the region, Frasco, on the other hand, said schools, building tools and resources to showed that 60 million of the 103 million the canine distemper post created help people verify the information they are active internet users and unnecessary and unwarranted panic and are finding online. spend an average of four hours and 17 distress, especially among pet owners, and Online threat minutes on social media via any device. caused undue harm and alarm in Liloan. The ecosystem of fake news is not just Of the 60 million active internet She said CFR presented itself as on the “falseness” of the content, but it users, 86 percent visit social media sites, “Media/News Company” and as such also involves the character the content is 52 percent are on search engines, 37 should verify information prior to circulated—speed, scale and the nature of percent are checking email, 32 percent publication like true media companies do. sharing. are listening to music and 10 percent are Bob Steele, senior faculty member A Field Guide to Fake News, compiled looking for product information. and ethics group leader of Poynter by Liliana Bournegru, Jonathan Gray, Google ban Institute, explained that a news story Tommaso Venturini and Michele Mauri, Facebook and Google are the two byline personalizes the report so readers says fake news is directly related to the technology giants blamed for the know someone is responsible for what’s threat of its accelerated circulation on the proliferation of fake news. reported and written. It allows readers to web and online platforms. Google recently announced that it had hold someone accountable for the story. It suggests that this circulation permanently banned nearly 200 publishers The disclosure of sources in the story represents more than just the popularity (website owners) from its Adsense is to show that the content came from of fake news like the number of likes, but advertising network last year after cracking official government sources, witnesses also how it is shared, why it is shared, and down on websites misrepresenting and experts, that it was not the creation or the speed and scale it is shared. themselves or their content. statement of a faceless source. The guide explores the use of digital Google has an existing policy against CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 11

publishers with misrepresentative content like those on weight-loss schemes Who profit from fake news and counterfeit goods. The policy was now and what can curb the abuse expanded to include sites impersonating news organizations. ake news as a business model is not its platform, earning money for every Adsense is the life and blood of Fnew; it is as old as news itself. In the person who clicks the link or every independent web publishers who rely on long history of fake news, propaganda for 1,000 users who see the ads. display advertising, and this is the main political gain is the common driver, but the 3. Facebook users click on the business model of fake news websites. motivation in the 2016 US election was not advertised links and go to the Facebook, on the other hand, necessarily so. fake news website, generating an introduced changes to its Trending Topics Many of the creators, based on the study impression for each display ad on the feature to better promote reliable news conducted by Stanford University’s Hunt website. articles. The trending feature has been Allcott and Matthew Gentzkow on Social 4. The Fake News site earns revenue blamed for spreading false information. Media and Fake News in 2016 Election, from the resulting advertising It also updated part of its language showed that motivation was on the path impressions which amount policy which blocks ads on sites and pages to quick dollars by distributing emotionally to millions of page views and tens of showing misleading or illegal content. engendered content and gaining an thousands of dollars per month. The updated Trending Topics system audience through social media that would * Publishers must have a Facebook now identifies groups of articles shared view websites loaded with advertising. page to run newsfeed ads. on Facebook instead of relying solely on One historical example of fake news 5. Fake News producers advertise their mentions of a topic. with profit as the motivation was the great page to fans, eventually growing an moon hoax published and circulated by the organic Facebook audience to whom Recently, Senator Joel Villanueva New York Sun in 1835 and the spaghetti- they can share links at no cost. filed a bill that would jail or fine people tree hoax of BBC in 1957. 6. Fans can share these links to their and companies that spread fake news. Benjamin Franklin’s fake newspaper own Facebook networks, furthering The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the in 1782 was nothing but propaganda to the organic reach of fake news. This Philippines also issued a pastoral letter drum up British sympathy for the American is how something “goes viral.” telling Catholics to stop spreading fake Revolutionary cause. news, “a sin against charity.” Reputational concerns and media The Macedonian teens who were writing Media’s task laws discourage mass media outlets fake stories during the November 2016 Will any of these stop fake news? from knowingly reporting false stories. US election were able to make US$7,000 Jeff Jarvis, a blogger and journalism However, the onslaught of technology and a week with only three tools: a fake news professor, said media should “bring social media gave digital entrepreneurs site, a Google AdSense account and a journalism to the conversations that are the opportunity to monetize engineered Facebook Page. Investigations conducted already occurring on Facebook, Twitter, content in order to drive traffic to websites by Buzzfeed and the Guardian showed that and elsewhere... we should be going to the that deliver more impressions for online these teenagers were responsible for more social platforms, speaking the language advertisements. than 100 sites posting fake news. there, respecting their context, and using Katherine Haenschen and Paul Aside from initiatives by Facebook and the devices they provide—memes, video, Ellenbogen from the Freedom to Tinker, Google to cut off monetization of fake news photos, dancing GIFs if that’s what it Princeton University’s Center for Information sites and pages, media literacy is one of the takes — to bring journalistic value to the Technology Policy, a research center that efforts eyed to help solve the proliferation of conversations that now occur without us.” studies digital technologies in public life, fake news online. “We in media won’t get there until and illustrated in a diagram how the business Quite a number of news organizations unless we take responsibility for informing model for fake news works. here and abroad are now publishing educational materials on how to spot the public where the public is and for our 1. An individual publishes false fake news and sharing online content responsibility in creating the vacuums information on a Fake News website, responsibly. Another is for marketers and exploited by the fake news factories.” then pays to advertise a link to the brands to be aware of fake news sites How can we stop fake news? post in Facebook users’ newsfeeds. and stop placing online ads on these The Field Guide to Fake News 2. Facebook profits from advertising on questionable sites. Mildred V. Galarpe strongly recommends for readers to share responsibly. Every social media user is an influencer within his/her own social network. Be familiar in spotting the telltales of fake news. It recommended further to post and share only those stories verified to be true or from sources you know to be responsible.

(Mildred V. Galarpe is the online sales head of SunStar Publishing Inc. and the former managing editor of SunStar Network Exchange, the new media department of SunStar Publishing Inc.) 12 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

IN A SEA OF MEDIA Restoring faith in journalism

These two scenarios tell us how trust find professional journalism and trust By Nini B. Cabaero in journalism is under threat, and that is eroded,” Berger said during the World journalists face an existential challenge to News Media Congress organized by the remain relevant to their audiences. World Association of Newspapers and As United Nations official Guy Berger News publishers (WAN-Ifra) in South What is factual is not said, when doubt is sown so that people in Africa last June. Berger is director seen as trustworthy; what the end don’t know what’s credible, they for freedom of expression and media are thrown back on their hearths—their development of Unesco (United Nations is unverified is treated as networks, their social bubble, or a strong Educational, Scientific and Cultural reliable. leader who reinforces predispositions, Organization). hunches and biases. Take a look at abusive language “The expectation that society can directed at mainstream media in CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 13

“We come from a tradition in which we did not want to meet the audience. We were the gatekeepers that would provide, and they were a mass that, with a few exceptions, would not react. The great challenge of the next years is to build a different kind of relationship with the audience”

Rosental Alves founder and director of the Knight Center for Journalism at the University of Texas

comments posted on websites and social media. The hashtags #sundino and #fakenews have been used to discredit Cebu’s news publications. Cyber thugs abuse freedom of expression to frighten people into silence and pick on journalists, preferably women. Then, there are websites and Facebook accounts that masquerade as serious news sources by exploiting names that sound genuine. “The overall effect,” Berger said, “is that healthy public skepticism about the merits between different information flows is shifting toward cynicism about all of them altogether.” “The news media is in trouble,” said Jason Tanz in his Wired.com article titled “Journalism fights for survival in the post-truth era.” The advertising-driven business model is on the brink of collapse. Advertising revenue has been down for the last three years and continues to decline. With declining revenues for media companies, the industry has seen the loss of journalists through early retirement or redundancies. But without journalism, who will go after the liars, expose the corrupt, check on government abuses? Who will ask the questions for the people? Who will report on triumphs and tragedies, and explain actual events? The World Press Trends 2017 shows a shift from advertising to reader-based revenue, with subscription and copy sales 14 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

overtaking ad placements in generating foundation of our business: credible, first- revenue. The study said that, globally, 56 rate journalism.” percent of newspapers’ overall revenue What is clear is that the media “The overall effect,” Berger came from circulation sales—print and industry has to go into self-examination said, “is that healthy public digital—in 2016. mode on how to regain that trust. The shift from advertising to In the panel discussion on “Media: skepticism about the reader-based revenue is “reshaping broken, or just misfiring?” during the the fundamentals of our industry,” said congress, media leaders discussed how merits between different WAN-Ifra chief executive officer Vincent journalism’s mission is more important information flows is shifting Peyrègne who presented key findings than ever. from the global study at the congress in “We have to start by admitting that toward cynicism about all of South Africa. we’re the problem. We’re very quick to “We have entered a pivotal moment,” blame the environment or the ecosystem, them altogether.” Peyrègne said, “and more than ever but we need to look for the fixes our focus needs to be on our audience ourselves,” said Ritu Kapur, co-founder of and producing high-quality, engaging the India-based The Quint. journalism.” “We have moved from mass media to “We come from a tradition in which Peyrègne also called on the news a mass of media. It’s a radical change for we did not want to meet the audience. We industry to take seriously the increasing the industry,” said Rosental Alves, founder were the gatekeepers that would provide, number of surveys showing that people and director of the Knight Center for and they were a mass that, with a few around the world are losing their trust Journalism at the University of Texas. exceptions, would not react. The great in societal institutions, among them the The transformation will be from challenge of the next years is to build a news media: “The decline in trust is the the old top-down ecosystem—in which different kind of relationship with the biggest risk we face as an industry, and all publishers determined which information audience,” Alves said. our efforts must be with the aim of getting was distributed to the public—to one that Here’s a six-point plan on what media it back.” values the audience and interacts with it, can do to build trust and engagement with “We used to trade in attention. But Alves said. (blog.wan-ifra.org/2017/06/09/ audiences, as drafted by Mike Wilson, trust is our new currency,” Peyrègne journalisms-mission-is-more-important- Dallas Morning News editor, and shared said. “Any decline in trust erodes the than-ever) during the forum:

said Isolde Amante, SunStar Cebu’s editor- Trad-media fights back in-chief. What Cebu newsrooms are doing to regain readers’ faith “We always attribute to our sources. We’ve also minimized the use of anonymous sources. If any question is raised about By Laureen Mondoñedo-Ynot sense of responsibility necessary in their a specific story, we publish the relevant field. portions of interview transcripts,” she said. RUST. A thing mainstream media is now “Beyond good writing skills, you go back For Mary Ann Uy, news chief of ABS- Tbattling to regain or maintain, with people to the basic tenets of journalism—accuracy, CBN Cebu, it’s all about giving the public a now relying more on the internet in getting fairness, fact checking, and sensitivity to the “full, clean package.” their daily dose of news. Blogs and social public’s sensibilities when handling delicate “On videos, we blur what we need to media pages posing as legitimate news stories,” said Edra Benedicto, editor-in-chief blur, cover what we need to cover, indicate sources are cropping up like mushrooms of Cebu Daily News (CDN). courtesy if the material is not ours. We and contributing so greatly to online chaos A code of ethics and standards is attribute information. We don’t mention that the public now has difficulty parsing the journalists’ bible. To them, news is names if they must not be mentioned. We truth from falsehood. Disruption is becoming never fake. It is authentic and a product get all sides. We verify and get sides via on a new normal. So has fake news, and all of their hard work. Their publication is cam interview, phone call, text message, of these contribute to loss of trust in core not a repository of unverified information. even online messaging,” Uy added. institutions that have worked hard for Reporters work around the clock to gather decades to keep their credibility intact. accurate data, and the stories they file pass 3. Accepting accountability Media organizations in Cebu are not through a rigorous process—editing, vetting In journalism, being responsible means exempted from this scourge. Newspaper and fact checking—to ensure that they are holding the journalists accountable. companies like SunStar, Cebu Daily News presented fairly and honestly. SunStar Cebu ensures that if a mistake and The Freeman, as well as TV and radio “This means we do not cut corners in our is made, a correction is issued. groups are finding ways to restore or keep the processes to ensure that what we publish— “[The correction] appears online as soon readers’ trust. Below are some practices of on print or online—is correct, verified and as the error is confirmed, and in the next these newsrooms to keep that faith burning. uncompromised,” said Joeberth Ocao, The immediate print edition,” Amante said. Freeman’s online editor. The same goes for The Freeman and 1. Adhering to journalism’s standards Cebu Daily News. and ethics 2. Attributing information to sources “While it is embarrassing to get burned, Journalists are taught not just to hone Attribution, a practice that seems to be ethical journalists don’t like to sweep their writing skills but also to develop the eroding on social media, is also important, them under the rug, and it is the duty CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 15

Tell the audience what you’re doing. against the benefits of social media. on how media are losing out to social Meet the audience. Social media should be judged against the networks but on how information flows Label our journalism more clearly. standards of responsible information- should be guided and judged by the Explain who you are. generation and distribution. principles of accuracy and accountability. Listen and respond to readers, and act A structured system of complaints, Journalists are confident that upon what you’ve heard. with the use of social media bots, is their dedication to reporting credible Examine and explain what we do. important for a reader to know he can information is what will save the media As the WAN-Ifra summarized: turn to someone with complaints. They industry. The plan calls for more transparency use their relationship with the audience Marcelo Rech, World Editors Forum regarding the work journalists are doing, as a way to boost trust, an important former president, said this is a good time clearer labeling of the different types of currency in the age of user-generated to encourage young people to take up content they produce—from hard news to content and fake news. positions in media. opinion pieces—and taking the audience If humanity ahead is to inherit a legacy Alves agreed and said: “It’s one of the more seriously. to be trusted and cherished, the fight best times to be a journalist. It’s a privilege Cebu media organizations are doing back for journalism has to be intensified, for this generation not to be the one that their part in trying to regain that trust. Unesco’s Berger said. is ending the world but the one that is They go back to journalism principles and Journalism needs to reassert its place building a new media ecosystem, so I am standards, and they call out fake news, as in the formula of trust. That each person very optimistic.” they take extra care to attribute content needs, and will get, truths that will help correctly. (See sidebar.) him grasp the complexity of reality, (Nini B. Cabaero is the editor-in-chief They use digital media to bring Berger said. of SunStar Network Exchange, the new their journalists closer to the audience He cited media literacy and press media department of SunStar Publishing by responding to comments, showing councils as ways to rebuilding that trust. Inc.) how they report events by going live, Students of journalism should be and admitting and correcting errors. encouraged to hold internships not On the social media arena, they point only in media organizations but also in to journalism standards being upheld communities where they teach ordinary regardless of platform. folk the principles of journalism. Press Journalism should not be measured councils could hold discussions not

of the reporter and his/her news outlet or patently false posts. During the May 2016 that we hope will draw their attention. You to immediately rectify the wrong info or elections, we helped point out a false post that can see that in every issue, in the snippets erroneous story,” CDN’s Benedicto said. claimed—before 10 a.m. on election day—that of background material or statistics that “These are strategies that are tested the results were already in and that Duterte accompany most stories. These ‘layers’ are by time and, at the minimum, what every had won. Again, we’re not sure whether we meant to enrich the stories, as well as point journalist and news organization is expected reached the same audiences that the false to credible information sources that readers to do,” added Ocao. post had reached, but we did our part by can examine if they wish,” she added. pointing out that it was wrong,” said Amante. 4. Correcting misinformation A more obvious effort along these lines 5. Doing journalism as public service Aside from correcting errors in their is SunStar Cebu’s Vitals page, which comes Journalism is also a great way to do stories, journalists in Cebu also correct out on Sundays. public service, one of the factors driving misinformation that some individuals “In Vitals, we hope to give readers a ABS-CBN Cebu to do its job. or groups have spread online to drown deeper look at the facts and, along the way, “We believe in putting public service out facts and influence the public’s correct any misinformation,” said Amante. together with journalism. When we dig understanding of what’s really happening. “SunStar Cebu is making a consistent deeper on what journalism really is, we can “On social media, we correct erroneous effort to present data to readers in a way see that it is all about empowering people and making their lives better,” said Uy, stressing that they research on information the people really need. For her and other broadcast journalists, public service is the best tool to highlight the foundations of journalism. “When people see that, and understand that, they will realize its worth and our worth as media,” Uy said. There are a lot more ways by which media organizations can rebuild or keep trust in journalism. As Benedicto said, “No right thinking mainstream media organization would want to be a purveyor of fake news because its EDITORS of The Freeman discuss the stories for the next day’s issue. credibility is its selling point.” 16 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

From the great beyond ... It was the biggest story of the day. On June 7, 2017, Bien Unido Mayor Gisela Boniel had been shot by her own husband, her body wrapped in a fishnet and weighted with stones, then thrown into the sea, according to a witness. Her husband, Provincial Board Member Niño Rey Boniel had been detained by police. But 10 days after Gisela’s killing, divers had yet to find her body. Then SunStar Superbalita [Cebu] editor Rolando “Dodong” Morallo’s phone rang. “I am the wife of Bonel,” said the female voice on the line. Morallo froze. “I got your number from (Superbalita columnist) Roger Serna,” the voice continued. “Sorry for the short notice, but we have an event this evening. Can you give me the number of the sports editor?” When Morallo asked why, the voice said, “I am the wife of Bonel Balingit.” The woman on the phone was the wife of a former pro player from Cebu, not the Bien Unido mayor. NEWSROOM TALES

Undressing for a story Was that gunfire? Michael Rama was expected to meet with them. While she made a short stop to the While still with Bombo Radyo, Futch After a raid by Cebu police yielded area where the demolition had begun, Anthony Inso and Fritz Menguito, who high-powered firearms, Cebu Daily News however, she learned that Rama had arrived. was then with Kampilan News, decided reporter Ador Mayol positioned himself Running to him, Saniel dropped the to produce an investigative report on on top of a wooden box to get a better battery of her radio. Reporters use radios the political conflict in Barangay Agus view. But then the wood collapsed under to monitor when they can come in with in Lapu-Lapu City. The office of the City his weight, and when it did, it sounded like their reports. Then the dyAB desk called, Fishery Aquatic Resource Management a gun had been fired. saying, “And now, here’s a report from Council (CFARMC) was still being All the policemen turned to Mayol. Angie Saniel…” managed by the defeated barangay Even Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, director of Saniel was left with no choice but to captain, and the barangay tanods assigned the Police Regional Office 7, drew his gun. deliver her report immediately, which she to the area had complained of harassment. The red-faced Mayol said it was a good did, she said, “with feelings,” saying, “And The CFARMC office was located on an thing they didn’t shoot him. now let’s listen to Mayor Mike Rama...” only islet in the middle of the sea, so Inso and to learn later that she was still off the air. Menguito removed their pants and shoes, Working… with feelings “Gi-ilad ra ko nga on air na (They just so as not to get these wet. Wading through tricked me into thinking I was already on the sea clad only in their T-shirts and For three days in 2013, dyAB’s Angelica the air) to check if I had been monitoring underwear, they expected to get a good Faye Saniel covered a demolition in the news.” story. Then they reached the area and Barangay Apas, Cebu City. On the third Research by Ogherty B. Lopez and found the office closed. day, she visited some homeowners. Mayor Cherry Ann T. Lim CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 17

PRINCE Golez (extreme left, in eyeglasses) holds a recorder in front of then Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. This interview was conducted before Duterte’s motorcade and campaign rally for the presidency in San Pedro, Laguna. Golez covers Malacañang and the Senate for Panay News. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO) Covering Duterte after Year One Three journalists assigned to Malacañang, one of whom reports for a community newspaper, tell about some changes in protocol for the press corps but not much in the president’s way of giving information and dealing with media. It’s still a tough struggle for reporters to get him right, given his propensity to exaggerate, crack jokes, go into fits of anger, and take unclear or shifting positions. But the tips and explanations from Duterte himself and his communicators may help. 18 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

His early days into the presidency violation of the right to life, liberty and By JOEBerth m. ocao saw Duterte castigating journalists in security of members of the media.” public like those from -based The task force aimed to provide news organizations whom he believed security to journalists under threat and to were unfair in their reportage of his monitor the cases of journalists who were Journalists agree administration, particularly in his fight killed. that Rodrigo Duterte is against illegal drugs. Last year, the Center for Media It was a “touchy” relationship, so to Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) straightforward and down speak, yet his first few months also saw warned: No president owes the press a to earth even after he two orders perceived to be beneficial to rose garden—if he makes it difficult to get won as president, yet his journalism and the journalists. the story right, that is the problem they In July last year, Duterte issued an must accept as part of the turf. But this relationship with the press executive order promoting access to should also make journalists more vigilant was never smooth sailing. information. About four months later, about how they cover Duterte. Clearly, he created, through an administrative the president’s approach to policy-making order, the “Presidential Task Force on the and his mindset about the media suggest a bumpy and challenging ride ahead. A year after he took oath as president, what has changed in the Duterte-reporter dynamic? “Overall, his treatment of journalists did not change. The love-hate relationship is still there, something that is healthy for a democracy,” says Alexis Romero, who covers Malacañang for . He said the President is still accommodating to the media, but certain security protocols now have to be observed. Ambush interviews, for instance, are now discouraged. Prince Golez of Panay News says the same. “Unlike in the early days of his presidency, strict protocols for media covering the President are now in place. A designated area for reporters and their crew are also provided in the venue. Covering media are also advised early on whether an ambush interview may be carried out. This would avoid unruly journalists,” Golez says. And with his tight schedule now, press conferences are no longer that frequent. Last year, Duterte held press conferences at midnight streaming down to dawn, recalls The Philippine Star editor Giovanni Nilles, who took a special assignment of covering Duterte’s early days in office. “He used to call press conferences at unholy hours (at one time, Malacañang reporters were advised to stand by at 10 p.m., when they were already at home, for a press conference which started past 1 a.m. and ended at around 4 a.m.),” Nilles shares. With coverage protocols in place, Golez believes the President also needs to step up. “The chief executive has built a reputation for being late all the time. He GIOVANNI Nilles of The Philippine Star at the briefing room in Malacañang.(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO) should make an effort to turn up to events CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 19

HOW I SEE IT ignore exaggerations and jokes and go to turbulence quite well, and we hope to have his spokesperson and his communications better working relations with them. FROM HERE office for clarification—before reporting and commenting. Has that advice helped [6] What are the thrusts of your office other journalists in getting the President’s than staying on the President’s messages message right? to the nations? ‘We hurdled the Absolutely, and as you may have noticed We are working on improving our in the past few months, there have been state-owned media agencies, our facilities turbulence quite well’ fewer instances when the need to clarify the (broadcast hubs) and more importantly, we President’s messages arose. are investing in our human capital by giving our personnel, our reporters and editors the PCOO CHIEF [3] The President’s complaints about proper training here and abroad for them to media, as can be gathered from his public improve in their fields. MARTIN M. ANDANAR statements, dwell mainly on focus of His more than two decades in broadcast and stories. He griped about Inquirer’s slant [7] What would you like to see more and communications encompassed roles as TV news on the drug war being directed against the less of regarding media coverage of the anchor, radio commentator, podcaster, and poor and about ABS-CBN reporting on the President? video and audio blogger, preparing him for his wealth issue. Those are general criticisms. More impartiality and fairness while at the biggest communications role to date: Presidential Would it help if your office could provide same time lessening the tendency to create media with specific cases that support the intrigues and hostility. Communications Secretary. President’s complaints? A good example would be the media [Interviewed by PACHICO A. SEARES] hype over the EJK or extra-judicial killings. [1] Please update us on changes you had While most of the headlines focus on the planned, or earlier announced, about body count as a result of the government’s your department and its communication anti-illegal drugs campaign, very few are strategy for the President. reporting on the real score and the fact that the campaign is more than just eliminating the -- What is the name now of the Presidential drug problem but also about finding a long- Communications Operations Office term solution. That’s why the PCOO, DOH (PCOO) that you said on June 20, 2016 (Department of Health), DSWD (Department would be leaner and one letter less in its of Social Welfare and Development), PNP initials? (Philippine National Police) and PDEA We have decided to retain the PCOO (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency) jointly brand for practical considerations after came up with the #RealNumbersPH forum to realizing we do not have enough funds to present the facts and actual figures as well as defray the costs involved in having a change what both the government and private sector of name. Anyway, as Shakespeare said, are doing to heal not only the users and “a rose by any other name would smell as pushers, but the entire nation. sweet.” [4] How has your office addressed the -- Is your title now Press Secretary? The information needs of regional centers office of the press secretary has been and rural communities, which are barely restored? How does it relate to the PCO? reached by the “national media” that cater Since we have retained the PCOO mainly to their Manila audience? brand, it follows that my position title We launched the Provincial is still PCOO Secretary or Presidential Communication Officers Network or Communications Secretary. PCO Net precisely to address this concern, along with the strengthening -- How has the reallocation of functions on of our existing platforms in various messages of President Duterte between specialized agencies under the you and presidential spokesman Ernesto PCOO. Abella—which you defined in a Feb. 27, 2017 department order—worked? [5] How have you adjusted Spokesperson Abella and I have a very with your work after the initial good working relationship. Since February, turbulence in your relations the realignment of functions has made life with journalists? better and more productive for both of Those were birth pains us. With his calm demeanor, he has been that accompany the doing great in articulating the President’s transition period every pronouncements, and I think our styles time there is a change complement each other. in government. I believe somehow [2] Early on, media was advised to get we have hurdled the meaning of what the President says-- the so-called 20 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

on time,” Golez says. Romero also believes Duterte “needs to express himself in a clearer manner.” “If he is misinterpreted, the media gets the blame,” he says. Nilles says it was difficult to distinguish fact from fiction in the President’s “cryptic answers.” Last year, shortly after he won the May elections, Duterte figured in the headlines when he said many journalists in the Philippines were killed for being corrupt. “Kaya namamatay kasi karamihan diyan nabayaran na. They take sides or sobrahan ang atake, getting personal… just because you are a journalist you are exempted from assassination...” he was quoted as saying. Instances like these, Duterte’s use MONITORS OF POWER. President Rodrigo Duterte (front row, center) poses with the journalists who of “undiplomatic” language, leave his cover him during the oathtaking ceremony of the Malacañang Press Corps. The Philippine Star’s Giovanni officials scrambling to the press to clear Nilles is in the back row, extreme left. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO) his points. Even this has proven to be chaotic. “Unfortunately, there have been misinterpreted and misunderstood.” “The President has access to instances wherein the statements of In an article by ABS-CBN, Laviña said confidential information and state Duterte’s spokesman do not jibe with the the president’s comments were based resources. His words now have more real message of the President. Worse, the only on his own assessment of journalists weight, although it is really hard to fully spokesman does not immediately reply killed in his turf, one of whom was Jun decode which of his statements are to journalists seeking clarifications on his Pala, a hard-hitting critic who was killed serious policy pronouncements and which principal’s remarks,” Romero says. in 2003, “and not on the national scale.” ones are just wisecracks,” Romero says. For that comment on media killings, Until today, Duterte continues to Having covered the President since Duterte’s then spokesperson, Peter accuse ABS-CBN and national broadsheet the campaign period, Golez says not Laviña, would then say Duterte’s The Philippine Daily Inquirer of peddling much has changed in Duterte’s stance on statements were “taken out of context, falsehood allegedly to malign him. key issues, but he would want to see the

President Duterte’s threat to suspend the expressions of disgust and impatience over Deciphering privilege of the writ of habeas corpus to the many unresolved and unaddressed control lawlessness. (Philippine Daily Inquirer) issues that remain pervasive to this day.” the Man --Presidential Communications Secretary Tips from his close IT’S HYPERBOLE. Martin Andanar, on Dec. 15, 2016, after a aides and allies “The President always speaks in poll showing Filipinos’ concern that Duterte’s hyperbole, always exaggerated just to put his tirades against foreign officials could hurt resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte will say what message across.” the country’s standing in the international Phe wants to say, however he wants to say --Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre community. (ABS-CBN News) it, presidential decorum be damned. On many II, explaining on Dec. 14, 2016 Duterte’s occasions, his obscenity-laden tirades against statement about personally killing NOT LITERAL. criminals and critics, laced with threats of criminals. (Philippine Daily Inquirer) “We don’t take all the President’s violence, have put his administration in a statements literally, but we take his bind, forcing his spokespersons and Duterte IT’S CEBUANO SUBCULTURE. statements seriously.” himself to explain his pronouncements. “The Cebuano subculture speaks in a --Presidential Communications Secretary Here’s a look at how Duterte et al., with a very rough kind of humor.” Martin Andanar’s reply to BBC Newsday’s straight face, have wiggled out of the difficult --Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella, anchor Rico Hizon when asked on Dec. 16, positions the President’s words have put defending before Al Jazeera host Mehdi Hasan 2016 about Duterte’s statement apparently them in. in August 2016, President Duterte’s refusal admitting he had killed three people while to apologize for calling US Ambassador Philip serving as Davao City mayor. (Presidential THINKING OUT LOUD. Goldberg gay. (The Philippine Star) Communications Operations Office) “(Duterte could just be) thinking out loud when he said that he will go as far as JUST DISGUST. BE CREATIVE. suspending the writ of habeas corpus if the “On the President’s colorful language, “Let’s try to use our creative imagination, drug syndicates won’t stop.” we ask for our people’s understanding as okay? Huwag tayo masyadong literal (Let’s --Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II these utterances are not personal attacks not take things too literally.)” to reporters on Nov. 13, 2016, following directed at particular persons but mere --Presidential spokesperson Ernesto CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 21

President’s succeeding steps. “I am personally curious about the actions his government has taken against the individuals Duterte linked to the illegal drug trade. For instance, the President has often tagged Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog of as drug protector, but no case has been filed against him yet. He also falsely accused Mabilog of being related to slain Iloilo suspected drug lord Melvin Odicta Sr., which the Ilonggo mayor has repeatedly denied,” Golez says. Next five years How do they see Duterte’s relationship with journalists in the next five years? Nilles believes it will continue to be a rollercoaster ride. “Unstable. The relationship would be like that of a rollercoaster where he renews his attacks on legitimate journalists and media outlets every time he gets criticized on one thing or another,” he says. Golez, for his part, believes the relationship is inconsequential, as far as the media’s watchdog role is concerned. “They should fulfill its role as guardian of public interest. Loyalty should always be to the country and not to anyone else. So it is inconsequential if the media are friendly or less friendly with the President or any government official,” he says. Romero puts it this way: “If the

Abella’s response to reporters on Oct. involved in criminality.” expense of myself sometimes.” 5, 2016 when asked to explain Duterte’s --Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella --President Duterte in a speech at the pronouncements that he would eventually explaining to reporters on Jan. 10, 2017 Bureau of Customs on Feb. 8, 2017 (CNN cut ties with the United States. (Philippine Daily President Duterte’s threat to kill mayors on Philippines) Inquirer) his narcolist who don’t resign. (Philippine Daily Inquirer) THE EYES HAVE IT. HEIGHTENED BRAVADO. “Look at my eyes. Look at my rage.” “PRRD is decisively acting, speaking NOT WHAT YOU HEAR. --President Duterte’s guide to CNN with heightened bravado, that law and order “Sometimes, what you hear from him is Philippines on how to determine whether he would be brought back in these areas of not really what he wants to communicate.” is speaking the truth or merely joking. rebellion in the soonest time possible and --Solicitor-General Jose Calida, trying that normalcy would likewise be restored to explain in January 2017 Duterte’s flip- LEARN FROM DAVAO MEDIA. with minimal loss of lives.” flopping views on martial law after Duterte “The President gave two pieces of --Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella, called martial law “nonsense” and “futile” in advice during the election campaign, which in a statement on May 27, 2017, after Duterte Dec. 2016, and then said he would declare we find relevant up to this day. 1) Discern attempted to rally troops in Iligan City by it if he “wants to” in January, citing the joke from truth. 2) Members of media should announcing that he would take responsibility looming threat of ISIS in . (Rappler) undergo a briefing from Davao-based for crimes, including rape, that they would media to learn how to differentiate when the commit during the imposition of Martial Law President Duterte himself and his President is making fun of the issue at hand in Mindanao. (Presidential Communications communications office have given the and when he is seriously stating a fact. We Operations Office) public guidance on how to understand his hope those tips can be of help.” pronouncements. --Communications Secretary Martin MATTER OF STYLE. Andanar, on Nov. 5, 2016, after Duterte “It is … a matter of the leadership style JUST FOR LAUGHS AT TIMES. had to clarify that he was only joking when and messaging style of the President …. “Of five statements, only two are true, he said that while aboard a plane, he heard It’s just meant to underline his seriousness while three are full of nonsense. I’m just God telling him to stop cursing. (Philippine in making sure that nobody is corrupt and fond of doing it. I just want to laugh, at the Daily Inquirer) 22 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

The Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility warned: No president owes the press a rose garden—if he makes it difficult to get the story right, that is the problem they must accept as part of the turf. But this should also make journalists more vigilant about how they cover Duterte. Clearly, the president’s approach to policy- making and his mindset about the media suggest a bumpy and challenging ride ahead.

government and media are singing the same tune, they are singing a funeral song for democracy.” He believes that for journalists to do their job effectively, they must bear in mind two principles: Journalists must maintain independence from those they cover, and journalists must serve as independent monitor of power. These principles are enshrined in “The Elements of Journalism: What Newspeople Should Know and the Public Should Expect,” a book authored by former Nieman Curator Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel, the director of the Project for Excellence in Journalism. Romero says that because of the press watchdog role, Duterte and the media will continue to have a love-hate relationship, and the president, as well as his officials, will continue to complain about the media’s tendency to highlight the negative aspects of the administration. “Pro-Duterte trolls will continue to malign the media, but I am confident journalists will not be cowed by their threats and vitriol. Duterte will continue to cite media corruption to get back at those who are critical of him. Journalists should, therefore, make sure that their reputation is beyond reproach,” he says. CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 23

Reporter or cartoonist by Rolan John Alberto

Battle ready by Bernard Fabro

What media wishes it could by John Gilbert Manantan 24 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 Revisiting Maneja: Was media ethics observed?

To news anchor Manuel “Manny” The following day, the 33-year-old By Linette R. Cantalejo Rabacal, cult leader and engineer Rodrigo university engineering professor went “Rudy” Maneja was the boy who cried to see Rabacal, then station manager of wolf—until one hot sunny morning on Aug. Bombo Radyo, and told him about his dare 10, 1985, when he set himself on fire before to Catholic priests. It was a threat he had a stunned crowd of about 3,000 people in “He came to my office. He said heard several times, said Plaza Independencia in Cebu City. if there were priests at the Plaza on with much fanfare on at least Maneja first told a blocktime program Wednesday, he would cause a ball of fire on radio dyFX of his challenge to from the sky to hit them. On Wednesday, three occasions, but never Catholic priests, whom he called liars and I sent reporter Tommy Repazo to cover carried out each time. deceivers, to meet him at the plaza, where the event live for Bombo, but nothing he would bring down a ball of fire on them happened. So I interviewed him on air. to show who was preaching the truth. He was at the Plaza; I was in the station. I CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 25

GUIDELINES. Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas chairman Rudy Ylaya (extreme left) discusses ethical guidelines with local station managers on Aug. 17, 1985. Listening to Ylaya are Sandy Bas (dyNC-dyCB), Manny de los Santos Rabacal (dyMF), and Roy Ladiona (dyRC). (SUNSTAR DAILY/AUGUST 18, 1985) said, ‘O asa na man na? Wala man lagi na His interview with Maneja was aired imong ball of fire?’ (‘So where is your ball live. As he gave a detailed account of the of fire?’) He said he did not push through On the night Maneja events, the group of about 20 followers of with it because the priests did not show burned himself to death, Maneja’s Kahalha Hamasiyak cult ballooned up,” recalled Rabacal. to a crowd of 3,000 people who had come to A few months later, Rabacal heard the Kapisanan ng mga the plaza to witness the burning. Maneja again on the same blocktime At 10:20 a.m., Maneja stood on top program, this time telling the anchors Brodkaster ng Pilipinas of a pile of firewood, held by his brother- that he would set himself on fire in a Cebu chapter board members in-law Federico Gutierrez, who had with ritual called “Baptism of Fire” should the him bottles of gasoline. Shortly after, with priests continue to ignore his challenge. called for an emergency Gutierrez’s help, Maneja doused himself He would not die, he said, because his god in gasoline before a stunned crowd, would save him. The ritual was supposedly meeting to “discuss and including Rabacal. a doctrine of their Almighty “Yawah investigate” Rabacal’s “Sus, taod-taod, nikablit na man iyang Ellohem, with the aim to propagate the brother-in-law. Primero namatay. Ingon real faith that can save mankind.” coverage earlier that day. ko, ah namatay man, gimmick ra tingali ni Maneja again went to Rabacal’s ay. Pag-ikaduhang duslit na, pang! Nibuto! office the next day to tell him about the Booom! Buto ang lawas! Aguy, ingon ko “Baptism of Fire.” base, pagtawag ug bombero didto. Tawga, Rabacal responded by telling Maneja paanhia diri,” Rabacal said. that all his talk was baloney. (When his brother-in-law first lit the Months later, reporter Repazo pyre, the fire died, so I thought it was just called Rabacal to tell him that Maneja a gimmick. But on the second try, his body was already at the plaza wanting to be exploded. I told the base to call the firemen.) interviewed before the ritual. As flames engulfed Maneja’s clothes “When I approached Maneja at the and skin, his family made sure no one plaza to ask what he was doing, he said, could get near him to try to put out the “Magpasunog ko.” (I will have myself fire—not even the responding policemen burned.) My reply was, ‘Ah, diay?’ (‘Oh, and firefighters. really?’) That’s why people said he was “The mother refused to let anyone dared to do it. I told him, ‘Puro man lang ka touch Maneja. ‘Don’t touch him,’ she kept binuang. Tingali’g kaning imoha paukyab saying. It was a religious rite and she said lang ni ha.’ (‘All you’ve been saying is he would come back to life later at 3 p.m. nonsense. Maybe you just want to stir up What could we do? The police and firemen public opinion.’),” recalled Rabacal. were helpless. Nobody touched him, until “I thought it was just publicity for his he died. They brought him to their place religion. He said he would have himself in Talisay City. They said he would rise burned, but that he would not burn,” again in about seven days. We waited Rabacal said. ENGR. RUDY MANEJA as baptismal sponsor. seven days, but until now he has not come 26 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

back to life,” Rabacal said. Rabacal himself did not get in the way, believing that journalists have no right or authority to stop a religious rite. Though he was not able to warn the police beforehand because he did not take Maneja seriously, Rabacal believes he had done enough when he repeatedly told Maneja prior to the Aug. 10 ritual that his interpretation of the Baptism of Fire as depicted in the bible was too literal. There was no need to set anyone on fire just to prove his faith, he remembered telling the cult leader. Thirty-two years after the incident, Rabacal still remembers clearly the acrid smell and the deep wailing sound of MOTHER of Rudy Maneja Primitiva Maneja talks with reporter Leo S. Enriquez III. As her son burned, she Maneja’s slow death. But he still stands by refused to let anyone touch him, insisting that he would come back to life. (SUNSTAR DAILY/AUGUST 12, 1985) how he handled the news coverage despite the flak he drew from his peers in the media, otherwise, journalists would face criticism KBP members were divided on the issues the police investigators and the public. again when a similar incident occurs. raised. He noted that a priest who sat in There is no guilt over his actions in the If the same incident were to happen the board agreed that where religious rites past, only some questions that might help today, he said: “I would do the same thing, were concerned, “our role is just to cover. today’s journalists who may encounter the for who am I to stop them when even his We cannot stop them from doing it.” same situation. own mother and siblings didn’t want us “They said my coverage was Should a journalist stop a religious to stop them?... In fact, they wanted it sensationalized; that was my only fault. ritual that puts a human life in danger and to happen. My role was to tell the public But I didn’t know because all I was saying risk liability in doing so? what was going on. That’s it.” was a fact, no malice at all. Is there malice “My understanding is that journalism Investigation when you describe his organs burning? cannot get in the way of a religious rite. On the night Maneja burned himself to I was just trying to give a picture of the That is my question now: if journalists death, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster event as clearly as I could. That’s all they have the right to stop religious rites that ng Pilipinas (KBP) Cebu chapter board said—it was not a violation of journalistic will endanger the life of a person. I think members called an emergency meeting ethics. There was no formal complaint,” we have to be clear on what really are our to “discuss and investigate” Rabacal’s he said. terms of reference for covering events like coverage earlier that day. Police investigators also talked to those because then I would be asked why I Issues on propriety and Rabacal and his reporter, but they were didn’t do anything to stop it. I might have sensationalism were raised, with some not named respondents in the complaint been sued if I had stopped him,” he said. criticizing the news anchor for discussing filed against Maneja’s brother-in-law, who Rabacal said there were other opinions in detail how Maneja’s sex organs were was later cleared of the charges. on this, but that it would have to be burned during the ritual. Without hard and fast rules among established whose view was correct; During that meeting, Rabacal said, the most news organizations on how the likes of the Maneja coverage should be handled, Jason Baguia, University of the Philippines Cebu assistant professor of mass communication, said every journalist should approach such coverage with caution so as not to cause or contribute to the danger that individuals may face. “To first do no harm is basic in ethics. In the context of journalism and in light of the human right to life, a journalist should never aggravate any circumstance in which harm could befall a human being,” the media ethics professor said. He recalled the Manila hostage crisis of 2010 that saw lapses on the part of broadcast journalists and networks that covered the situation. “It is now generally held that restraint in reporting could have helped defuse the situation and perhaps reduced the probability of casualties following the PLAZA INDEPENDENCIA intervention of law enforcers,” he said. CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 27

Why Manny Rabacal did not stop, could not have stopped the burning

By Pachico A. Seares of choosing between saving a human life and managers who also handled the news. And aborting a big news story. KBP did not rule a strong sense of curiosity and self-interest: anny Rabacal, then with dyMF as then on Manny’s and his station’s liability. In Manny is both a journalist and a business Mstation manager and anchor, got the effect, they got off the hook. His boss even manager. And maybe some streak of scoop of his life when in 1985 he covered congratulated him for capturing the bigger naughtiness: another radio commentator, a Rudy Maneja while the engineer-cult leader audience for several days. lawyer, even offered to light Maneja up. had himself doused with gasoline and His colleagues judged Rabacal although burned to death at Plaza Independencia the KBP board couldn’t resolve a deadlock while a crowd of 3,000 people watched. “I didn’t try to stop it. It was a of opinions and didn’t rule, as no formal He and his radio station Bombo Radyo religious ritual. And I could not complaint was filed. His case, which CJJ were criticized by other broadcasters for has revisited, may help newsroom decision- (1) inducing Maneja to torch himself, (2) not have stopped it. His siblings makers in responding to a similar ethical trying to stop it, and (3) sensationalizing the crisis in the future. report on the suicide. and cult members didn’t In the heat of deadline, made more His peers who hurled the flak were allow anyone to go near him, intense by a round-the-clock news cycle, handicapped by an apparent motive. They it’s the journalist—on scene, on board, or sounded like envious competitors who were not even after the body was at gatekeeper’s desk—who ultimately must not there when Cebu’s biggest local death reduced to embers. Police and decide. story of the year broke. Only Rabacal as He’s most likely to keep in mind editorial anchor and one of his reporters were. And fire fighters didn’t do anything policy and company goal. He may also recall add a note of contradiction: even as they the injunction that “every life is more than any flogged Manny for sensationalism, they except to watch.” story.” But could all that overwhelm the thought themselves used the tape of Maneja in death that his bosses want the kind of story that throes (lifted from dyMF broadcasts) in their produces a powerful headline or click bait? own programs to report and comment on the Journalists are supposed to have more story. skepticism in their bones than many other people. Did Rabacal seriously believe Maneja could summon a ball of fire from the sky, with MANNY RABACAL now which to strike down Catholic priests, as he “I suspected they lashed hosts a show at me to justify the use of threatened he would if they showed up at the on the Cebu plaza? Did Manny really think Maneja would Catholic Television the sound clip that only our survive a torching of his body or resurrect Network. (PHOTO from ashes at 3 p.m.? Using common sense, FROM MANNY station had recorded.” Rabacal must have thought of Maneja as a RABACAL’S religious man who was nuts but must still FACEBOOK be respected for what he believed in. ACCOUNT) With or without the competition’s hostile reaction, would the replay of the dying man’s moaning, again and again on dyMF, be “I truly believed and I still do justified? Hardly, but we judge in our time, that journalists or anyone else, not in that time. Still, have values among broadcasters, especially on competition and a cop or a fireman, cannot survival, changed much since then? When the Cebu broadcast association stop a religious ritual.” KBP grilled Rabacal, views were split. Thirty-two years after, faced with a similar incident, KBP might still disagree on how a But consider the competitive spirit broadcaster should grapple with the problem among most broadcasters, especially

Baguia, a columnist of Cebu Daily True religion eschews imperiling News and inquirer.net, suggested that in human beings in any way. The task of covering a hostage crisis or an incident direct intervention to save human life or like Maneja’s Baptism of Fire, journalists preempt dangerous scenarios properly can perhaps find positions and report in a belongs to law enforcers, doctors and way that is unobtrusive both to the police allied medical professionals. But a and the aggressor. crucial part of the journalist’s mission On the Maneja coverage, he said: is to report with sufficient foresight, “Training in the liberal arts would equip thereby enabling the authorities in the journalist to differentiate between a turn to intervene in good time to genuine religious ritual and extremism. eliminate dangers or save lives.” 28 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

WITHOUT PROTECTIVE GEAR, SunStar Cebu reporter Johanna Marie Bajenting, SunStar photographer Alan Tangcawan and dyRC anchor/reporter Romeo Marantal cover the clashes between government forces and the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf in Sitio Ilaya, Barangay Napo, , Bohol on April 11, 2017. (SUNSTAR FOTO/ALEX BADAYOS)

Are reporters prepared to cover gunfights?

“We arrived at around 3 p.m. of April pulled back to the municipal hall where By Karlon N. Rama 11. This was nine hours after the clash,” she joined another Cebu-based colleague, she said, referring to Alex Badayos, Cebu Daily News photojournalist Tonee SunStar Cebu photo chief, and two other Despojo and around eight Bohol-based Cebu-based journalists—Alan Tangcawan reporters, and began “thumbing” her When Johanna Bajenting and Romeo Marantal. story using a mobile phone. learned from a colleague Their destination was Barangay Ilaya, Photo chief Alex, who had crept with that the military was already a community of 414 people according to Tangcawan to a place that offered a better the 2016 census, which sprawls along the lay of the land from which to take photos, engaging suspected Abu Inabanga River. captured some of the action. Sayyaf bandits in Inabanga, Scattered along the banks of a Tangcawan got about the same distributary stream were soldiers and material, but with a bonus: footage Bohol, she boarded the next policemen concealed behind bushes and captured by mobile phone and uploaded outbound fast ferry with trees. On the other side and similarly to Facebook as soon as they reached the nothing but a notebook, a situated, Abu Sayyaf men. municipal hall and got mobile coverage “We had barangay tanods carrying water back. Marantal was not able to report on recorder and the clothes she to the frontline bring us there. I sat on the the field owing to the lack of service but had on. ground, behind coconut trees and kept low was able to fire a report from the rear. when there was shooting. When it got quiet, For all the excitement, Johanna I glanced up from where we were hiding and admits she didn’t get much by way of began interviewing civilians who were also information at the edge of the fighting. there and who hid with me,” she said. She got eyewitness accounts, got She estimated her position to be about information about how the bandits less than 20 meters from where bullets were allegedly brought into Inabanga were landing. by a local named Joselito Melloria, and Her coverage lasted about two hours. noticed issues like poor coordination At sundown, she and her two colleagues between ground troops and air support CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 29

assets. But the main story published the following a foiled raid on a safehouse units. You need not be in the heart of the following day came by way of her fellow of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon action to deliver the most effective piece journalist, Kevin Lagunda, who reported escalated into an ongoing city-wide gun of news. When we are too close, we might from the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 battle between government forces and even miss the big picture,” he said. headquarters in Cebu City. elements of the Maute Group. Red Batario, executive director of the The PRO 7, located inside Camp Sergio “We all know what war looks like. Center for Community Journalism and Osmeña on the corner of Osmeña Boulevard But we don’t often see the suffering that Development and a safety instructor of the and R.R. Landon Street, was the designated war brings. That’s more relevant; that’s International News Safety Institute, agrees. Tactical Operations Center (TOC) of the the news,” said Luczon, who writes for “More important than tactical gear is joint Armed Forces of the Philippines and BlueInk.News. having a culture of safety and the adoption Philippine National Police response. Saludes, who writes for Ucanews and practice of safety and security At the TOC, information from the and BlueInk, agrees and adds that the protocols. The gear is useless if the ground commander got relayed to humanitarian crisis that the clash has behavior is bad,” he said. Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, then PRO 7 produced deserves attention because the Defining bad, he added: “when they director, who had operational command needs of those affected and displaced are unnecessarily expose themselves to of the response. It was also where pressing and media attention allows those return fire because of how they position strategic decisions were made and affected to communicate what these are. themselves, for instance… doing a stand- where the corresponding directives got Johanna admits that she was not able upper while moving with an armored communicated to the ground. to pursue these types of reports in the vehicle that is firing at combatants.” There were also periodic updates of three days she stayed in Inabanga. Veteran journalist Cecil Morella, in a information cleared for release and other “I didn’t want to leave my position and post via social media, cited behavior like information enterprising reporters could the others. I was also concerned about my capturing and airing troop movements wiggle out of sources despite orders to safety and didn’t want to be separated or live on platforms like Facebook as among maintain OPSEC (operational security). alone,” she said. the particularly dangerous. “They (the reporters at the TOC) could Where’s the gear? “Para ka na ding nagbigay ng grid probably get the same information we got Indeed, Cebu-based journalists coordinates para patamaan sila ng mortar at the edge of the fighting, but at a later covering the first day of the Inabanga round o para mahanap sila ng sniper,” the time,” defended Johanna. clash on April 11 looked nothing like the Agence France Presse reporter stressed. Compelling Manila and Mindanao-based journalists “Saka hindi lang ang mga sundalo ang But Mindanao-based journalist Nef who descended upon Marawi City when a pinapahamak mo pag ganun. Pati mga Luczon and Manila-based correspondent joint police and military team clashed with ibang media na din saka sarili mo. It’s the Mark Saludes say it is often the events fighters from the Maute Group last May 23. equivalent of calling in an air strike on unfolding away from the front—the While Johanna, Alex, Alan and Romeo yourself.” impact of the fighting among the hugged the ground and captured the action Batario joins in: “Reporting conflict residents, the evacuation of civilians, the wearing everyday clothes, the journalists is already complex and dangerous as it needs of the affected populations, among now in Marawi City wear office-issued is. But when FB Live is used to share the other things—that make up the more bullet proof vests and kevlar helmets. reporter’s ‘heroic’ exploits, he or she may compelling and relevant stories. And while the Cebu-based reporters be endangering not only himself but the While the two did not cover the managed to foray no more than 20 meters protagonists of the conflict as well as Inabanga clash, the two are actively from the fighting in Inabanga, journalists civilians by telegraphing troop movement still pursuing stories of the more recent covering Marawi City limit themselves or escape routes of those trapped in the Marawi crisis—where fighting that began well to the rear of the gunfight. fighting.” Johanna, like other Cebu-based Veteran journalist Inday Espina-Varona, journalists, don’t often cover conflict in her own post via social media, said and, as a result, are not issued the same behavior like this not only puts lives at risk equipment as Manila and Mindanao’s but also jeopardizes a profession “already “war correspondents.” under fire for doing the right things.” “I didn’t even have permission to go. I “You almost gave the enemies of free just phoned the desk that I was leaving while information an opening to crack down I was already at the port,” she admitted. on a very crucial coverage,” she said of a Television journalist Jun Veneracion, particular Visayas-based journalist. a veteran of many armed conflict “Media ethics exist to ensure that coverages for GMA Network, said safety drive, zeal or the passion to do good do not gear “spells the difference between life end up hurting our public,” she said. and death” in covering armed conflicts. His reports from conflict zones show him (Karlon N. Rama conducts Conflict- wearing both a kevlar helmet and a level 3 Sensitive Journalism training for the OUT IN THE OPEN. Cebu Daily News photographer vest with the word media in front. Peace and Conflict Journalism Network, Tonee Despojo (left) and SunStar photographer Alan Culture of safety under its Peace and Conflict Journalism Tangcawan take photos of Philippine Army soldiers Beyond the gear, journalists also need Program for Southeast Asia. He also returning from the Abu Sayyaf lair in Inabanga, Bohol at dawn on April 12, 2017, Day 2 of the clashes between to be in the proper frame of mind. delivers lectures on journalism to students government forces and elements of the terrorist group. “Don’t put yourself in a situation where of the Communication Arts program of the (SUNSTAR FOTO/ALEX BADAYOS) you become too close to the main operating University of San Carlos.) 30 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

Girding for battle

“Always, constantly, constantly, every officer to whom you or others could turn in be advisable. If encountering drunk or minute, weigh the benefits against the risks. case of emergency. impaired personnel at checkpoints run And as soon as you come to the point by combatants, you may be ordered where you feel uncomfortable with that to produce cash or other favors in equation, get out, go, leave. It’s not worth it. Armed conflict exchange for being allowed to proceed. There is no story worth getting killed for.” So carry small denominations of -- Terry Anderson, the former 1. Be physically fit. This will help you avoid currency, packs of cigarettes, or items Associated Press Middle East injury. such as inexpensive watches in their correspondent who was held hostage 2. Be emotionally prepared, appropriately original packaging to offer as small in Beirut for nearly seven years. equipped and insured. bribes. Don’t do anything to escalate the 3. Take hostile-environment and emergency- situation or the soldiers’ demands. first-aid courses prior to reporting in any 11. Satellite phones can easily be tracked. In a orldwide, journalists are increasingly situation involving armed engagement, hostile environment, avoid using a satellite Wcoming under threat of harassment, including exercises in how to react to a phone (or any radio frequency-based attack, imprisonment or murder, said the kidnapping scenario. device) from the same location more than Committee to Protect Journalists. 4. Thoroughly research the politics, history once. Keep the length of any transmission To help journalists protect themselves and behavior of all armed groups active in short. Turn off the machine and remove against both physical and legal risks during an area. its battery right after transmission. Avoid dangerous assignments, the group’s 5. Bring the appropriate gear. In extreme having multiple parties transmit from “Journalist Security Guide: Covering the cases, this could involve wearing hazmat the same location. Use code words in News in a Dangerous and Changing World,” suits, carrying detectors, or ingesting oral sensitive transmissions. offers these helpful tips. tablets to block or act against possible 12. Most journalists and security experts biological, chemical or nuclear agents. recommend that you not carry firearms or In combat zones, it may involve wearing other gear associated with combatants. Crime and terrorist scenes body armor rated to withstand shrapnel Doing so can undermine your status as and high-powered bullets. Be aware an observer and the status of all other 1. During a hostage standoff or other that even with armor, you could still die journalists working in the conflict area. unsettled scenario, don’t expose yourself from the trauma of blunt impact; and that 13. To avoid sexual violence, dress to risk from further disturbances. Ask helmets protect only against shrapnel and conservatively and in accord with local whether perpetrators may still be at large not a direct hit. custom. Avoid wearing necklaces, in the area. In a terrorist attack or other 6. Choose a safe vantage point from which ponytails, or anything that can be acts designed to attract public attention, to observe a conflict. grabbed; as well as tight-fitting T-shirts consider the chance of follow-up attacks. 7. Be aware of the impact of real-time and jeans, makeup and jewelry. Carrying You may wish to remain on the periphery reports. They may be perceived as equipment discreetly, in nondescript and interview witnesses as they leave the passing information to the enemy. If bags, can also avoid unwanted attention. area. embedded with any armed force, avoid Consider carrying pepper spray or spray 2. Clearly display credentials, including local doing anything to reveal the unit’s location deodorant to deter aggressors. government-issued credentials whenever or otherwise compromise its security. 14. Always prepare a security assessment possible. 8. If embedded, do not stand out in a way that in advance. The plan should identify 3. Avoid contact with material that is would suggest you are an officer or adviser. contact people and the time and means potential evidence. Snipers target silhouettes of suspected of communication; describe all known 4. In stories involving private property, know officers in opposing military units. hazards, including the history of problems the laws concerning access to public and 9. If not embedded, choose clothing that in the area; and outline contingency plans private property, trespassing, and invasion does not resemble military gear and that address the perceived risks. Risks of privacy. does not stand out. Be aware of how to be identified may include battlefield 5. Crime reporters with a vehicle may keep your appearance may look from far. hazards like crossfire, landmines, booby an emergency bag that includes a change Photojournalists holding cameras or traps, and artillery and air strikes; border of clothes, foul-weather gear, a flashlight carrying gear have been mistaken for crossings and other interactions with and a first-aid kit. combatants and killed by friendly forces. potentially hostile or undisciplined armed 6. Keep your mobile phone charged and with 10. Before traveling on local roads, consult groups; physical surveillance leading to you. But remember that hostile subjects with colleagues, military officials, and abduction or identification of sources; can track these phones. trusted local sources to determine electronic surveillance and interception 7. At least one editor should always be aware possible checkpoint locations and of information or sources; potential of your work, sources and progress. their operators. Learn in advance trustworthiness of sources, drivers, fixers, 8. When you approach a potentially hostile all checkpoint procedures, such as witnesses and others; and health risks. subject, be accompanied or observed the warning signals used by military Assess the communications infrastructure by a colleague. Communicate to hostile forces and the protocol expected of in the area and the availability of food, subjects that you are not working alone approaching vehicles. Reduce speed water, medical care and power; as well as and that your activities are being closely as you approach a checkpoint, remove your desired profile, such as whether you monitored by a news organization or sunglasses, show free hands, and wish to travel in a vehicle marked “Press” colleague. be respectful. Allowing soldiers or or prefer to blend in with other civilians. Cultivate a senior law enforcement militants to search your vehicle may CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 31

THE CEBU DECLARATION Killing Journalists: When law and order and justice system fail But media shares burden of reducing risk to safety of its practitioners

graphically demonstrates the major --Two on sectors like the academe and By Pachico A. Seares reason impunity, which is blamed for journalists to “work together” in preparing the incidents of violence, has gone present and future practitioners for unchecked in many areas of the country. situations of crisis and violence; ince Nov. 23, 2009, the Ampatuan While the wailing is louder over the death --Three on the usual themes of Massacre trial has moved oh of journalists, there are other victims, responsible journalism, professionalizing so slowly, stuck in the mire including activists, social workers and the craft, and solidarity among news of simultaneous hearings on labor reform advocates. organizations and journalists; petitionsS for bail filed by 58 of the 197 Because of its epic scale, the Ampatuan --The 11th point is No. 1 in the accused. Massacre trial is getting the attention, Cebu Declaration’s list: the state being Five years ago on that day, 32 at least once a year. But how about the primarily responsible for the safety of all journalists and media workers, along with smaller cases of violence in which the citizens, including the news media, should 26 other men and women, died in the same slow-moving justice apparatus is immediately act “to end the culture of worst single political killing in the country used? impunity.” since the Edsa Revolution of 1986. Cebu Declaration There is that word again, impunity, While 197 were charged with 57 Last Nov. 23, 2010, at the MBF Cebu which means, plainly, freedom or counts of murder, only 98 are detained; Press Center in Cebu City, the so-called exemption from punishment, penalty the rest are still at large. Petitions for bail, Cebu Declaration, adopted by the First or harm. When the killer gets away with in which the state must present “strong Media Conference on the Protection of murder, that’s impunity. evidence of guilt,” have made the process Journalists, listed 11 points: And there are two ways: he is not crawl, nowhere near the line when the --Five on measures to heighten arrested or he is arrested but is not main trial could start. awareness of safety among media swiftly punished. The first involves Ill-prepared personnel; law enforcement; the second involves The justice system clearly wasn’t prosecution and trial. prepared for dealing with this kind of a crime: a massacre with multiple victims and accused and hundreds of witnesses. While the state has made adjustments in handling the trial of the century, the case seems not to have moved at all, even as problems of disappearing, bought, or harassed witnesses, along with possible corruption of some prosecutors, bug the government’s case. The Ampatuan Massacre trial

THE PHOTO EXHIBIT at the conference shows scenes from the Maguindanao massacre site and the arrest of prime suspect Andal Ampatuan Jr. 32 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

THE “JOURNALISTS UNDER FIRE” conference was held on Nov. 23, 2010 at the Marcelo B. Fernan Cebu Press Center to mark the first anniversary of the Nov. 23, 2009 Maguindanao massacre. At the conference were (from left): Anastasia Isyuk of the International Committee of the Red Cross; Cherry Ann Lim of SunStar Cebu and the Cebu Citizens-Press Council; Red Batario of International News Safety Institute, Center for Community Journalism and Development and Freedom Fund for Filipino Journalists; Police Chief Supt. Alex Paul Monteagudo; Ledrolen Manriquez of the Peace and Conflict Journalism Network; and Nonoy Espina of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines. (SUNSTAR FOTOS/ALLAN CUIZON)

Justice system aberration, a once-or-twice-in-a-lifetime community tolerates excesses of politicians In 2010, when the Cebu Declaration was crime, though it magnifies in a colossal in the name of peace or progress; where the adopted, enormousness and enormity of the way, the risks that media faces and the press is weak because it is inept or corrupt. problem of the justice system must not have problem of impunity. The Cebu Declaration talked of a been seen the way it’s being recognized now OK, tuck it away for a while for this professionalized, responsible, and ethical by those closely engaged with the Ampatuan question: Does impunity still exist even press, adhering to high standards of the Massacre trial: victims’ relatives, government after the Ampatuan Massacre? Apparently, craft and engaging with citizens on public and private lawyers for the prosecution, and it does, since the killings of journalists and concerns. It called for solidarity within media-watch organizations. others have continued and the killers are the media. Otherwise, Item #1 in the declaration not held to account for the crime. Tall order for a community press beset would’ve touched specifically on that Where it exists with problems of finances, training and problem of providing due process to the Impunity exists in areas where political equipment along with professional and accused without negating the ends of justice. warlords rule; where police, prosecutors personal rivalry and I-can-part-the-sea The Ampatuan Massacre is an and judges can be bought off; where the hubris of some newsroom managers who demand servility from underpaid minions. Yet the arduous task of improving the community press must be waged. What the Cebu Declaration of 2010 said: Media can demand that the state do The Nov. 23, 2010 document, signed at the MBF Cebu Press Center, declares: its thing in boosting law enforcement and overhauling the justice system, even as The state is primarily responsible for the safety exchange of ideas among media workers on media must do its part in reducing risks of of all citizens, including the news media; dealing with crisis situations. newspapering and broadcasting. 1 Editors need to be resourceful and Recognition of media to protect Promoting responsible and ethical patient in answering such questions as 2-6its news personnel, adopt safety 9-10journalism and professionalizing this one from a reporter: “Please tell procedures, undergo safety training and bear the craft, enhancing media-citizen engagement. me how better writing can discourage a gunman from shooting me.” its cost, and help ensure one another’s safety in Building solidarity within media. hostile environments. 11 (This is a reprint, re-titled and slightly revised, Cooperation between academe and of the Nov. 22, 2014 Media’s Public column 7-8media organizations in preparing Some 104 delegates attended the 2010 forum of Pachico A. Seares, public and standards future journalists on risks of the job and in Cebu. editor of SunStar Cebu and executive director of the Cebu Citizens-Press Council.) CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 33 Cebu Declaration A Call to Action for the Protection of Journalists in the Philippines

Marcelo B. Fernan Cebu Press Center, Cebu letter and in spirit United Nations 6. Journalists, media workers, and City, Philippines Security Council Resolution 1738 freelancers should help ensure each 23 November 2010 of 2006 on the safety of journalists other’s safety in hostile environments; in conflict situations, the Geneva 7. The academe, specifically journalism Preamble: Conventions and all its protocols, and and communication schools, and media In a democracy like the Philippines, all local and national laws pertaining to organizations must intensify media- the people have the right to information so the protection of its citizens; academe cooperation programs to better they can participate wisely in governance. 2. News organizations should develop, prepare students, journalism trainees It is the role and the duty of the press implement and institutionalize “Duty and would-be journalists before they or the mass media to provide accurate of Care” for all news personnel they enter real-world journalism; information to the people so that the latter engage and provide appropriate 8. Journalists, media workers, and can make better decisions. But in order safety, first aid, and trauma training, freelancers must also work together to perform that duty, the press must be equipment, and insurance or other through the exchange of ideas and free and responsible. We note however financial provision for death or experiences in employing conflict- that in the Philippines the press has been disability when they cover dangerous sensitive reporting especially when hampered in the performance of this duty stories such as wars and other forms of covering situations of crisis and because of the killings of journalists. conflict, crime and corruption, natural violence; We, the 104 delegates to the 1st and human-induced disasters, and 9. Journalists and news organizations Media Conference on the Protection of health emergencies. Such provisions must continuously adhere to Journalists, in commemoration of the must be non-discriminatory and responsible, ethical, and quality first anniversary of the Maguindanao cover staff, freelancers, stringers, reporting in order to enhance media- Massacre, lament the unsolved killings media support staff, talents, and other citizen engagement, thereby ensuring of more than 130 journalists and media contract workers; a safe environment for journalism workers while performing their duties in 3. Journalists, media owners, press practice; the Philippines between 1986 and 2010. groups or associations, and media 10. Journalists must further development organizations should professionalize their craft by working We deplore: discuss and agree on appropriate and to attain a system of standards which Government inaction and the acceptable operational procedures ethically balance news coverage culture of impunity which gives rise to governing safety, first aid, trauma, and reporting for the people they the continuing physical, verbal, sexual and post-trauma stress management serve and, eventually, to explore harassment, attacks on and killings of of media workers and journalists. the concept of accreditation for the journalists and media workers in the The media organizations should set practice of journalism, and country; aside competition where the lives of 11. News organizations, media journalists, media workers and civilians development organizations, and We assert: are in danger and if and when necessary journalists are encouraged to build The protection of journalists is collaborate with state security and solidarity within the media. paramount as the free and independent disaster response management practice of their profession ensures the agencies; In conclusion: protection, promotion and fulfillment 4. Media development organizations must The conference further agrees to of the democratic rights of the people endeavor to promote safety training continue follow-up actions in relation especially their right to know, to speak in their programs for journalists and to the points raised by this Declaration and be heard; media workers. Likewise, they must and to provide updates to the conference extend assistance to smaller news organizers, International News Safety organizations that lack resources to Institute, Peace and Conflict Journalism Therefore we declare: provide adequate protection for their Network, and Center for Community 1. The State, with all its agencies and staff, correspondents, and stringers; Journalism and Development, about instrumentalities, is primarily 5. While news organizations must bear these actions, in partnership with other responsible for the safety of all citizens the cost of safety care for their news organizations or individually. The including the news media. It must also staff, freelancers, stringers and media Declaration and subsequent actions immediately act to end the culture workers, community vigilance and will be sent to the UN Secretary General of impunity where innocent civilians civic engagement are also needed for the annual review of the safety including journalists and media to safeguard the people’s right to of journalists under the terms of UN workers are killed and to observe in information; Resolution 1738. 34 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

HOW I SEE IT [3] Who are responsible for these at 888 Forum: organization, funding and FROM HERE producing and handling guests? What Ricky Rama Poca is the regular moderator while I serve as coordinator. Atty. Clarence Paul Oaminal and Art Barrit 888 Forum doesn’t ask for pinchhit if Ricky and I are engaged in other may kill money or favor from its activities elsewhere. Joseph provides the funding for expenses guests. Just staple for news. not covered by Marco Polo’s hosting. [4] Since 888 Forum at times tackles a media contentious issues, how do you achieve ELIAS O. BAQUERO fairness and balance? A common A senior reporter for SunStar Cebu, is president of complaint against some media forums the Cebu Federation of Beat Journalists, chairman of is that they show their partiality over an the Cebu Newscoop, and a director of the Cebu City issue by the way they pick guests and forum the frequency they are invited. Cooperative Development Authority, as well as Cebu Credibility, fairness and balance in choice Credit Surety Fund of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. of guests and topics, we try to achieve. There he 888 Forum may be the only are some, however, who find fault when the media forum of its genre that choice doesn’t coincide with theirs. has survived in Cebu. Notable [1] Tell us how the 888 News Forum differs from the usual Kapihan or press interview [5] Are tough questions ever asked at the forums in the past included: program that some sectors of media 888 News Forum? Does its format allow T-- “Meet the Press” of Cebu Press Club undertake: on choice of guests, range of probing into an important but sensitive and, later, Association of Cebu Journalists topics, and access of the public to it. issue? With multiple guests, a discussion (during lunch and on TV); A panel picks and schedules the guests may just touch an issue superficially. -- Lunch with Sun.Star, though limited for each week. The topics depend upon the Most questions come from representatives to Sun.Star journalists; expertise of the resource persons. The hot issue of media outlets who know the issue -- “Kapihan sa Sugbo” of Sukna, of the week and how the guests can enlighten discussed. We don’t allow however the Q&A an association of mostly broadcast the public through media influence the choice. session to descend into a shouting match or Most of the media outlets in Cebu attend a shaming hour. We don’t want to embarrass commentators. the press-con and report on what they find our guests while we are the host. We remind Many reporters prefer to work newsworthy. It’s also recorded on video by media to treat our guests with respect. separately, not with the herd. But a media MyTV and aired at 8 p.m. every Tuesday, After the Newsforum, reporters and forum, or similarly a press-con, can provide Thursday and Saturday. broadcasters are free, on their own and on the clue or lead to a big story. If a media Not much different from other press-cons their time, if the guest agrees, to pursue their forum fails to provide even that, reporters organized by media. The venue, breakfast and line of questioning. That will enable them stay away, as they shun an empty well. snacks though are provided free by Marco to get more data for their story, which they Funding Polo Plaza. didn’t get at the forum. Other than the time and energy [2] Doesn’t 888 News Forum aim to serve [6] Through the years, the 888 News needed to organize a media forum, there’s primarily as a link between news sources Forum must have drawn praise as well the sensitive issue of funding and its and news reporters? If its original purpose as criticism. Name some praises. And, in complications. was to promote tourism business, how is gist, what do the critics say? An inevitable suspicion is that some its expansion (to governance and politics With the new format, the forum has become people might be making money from and almost any other topic) affecting the more lively and a richer source of news for it or using the forum to gain or peddle reason for its being? media and a genuine venue of free expression. influence. Organized in 2006 by former consul It has received awards from private and general Bobby Lim Joseph and some media government entities, notably the Cebu City When the volunteers whom colleagues personalities, it was a counterpart of his 777 Government. The criticism we receive is that trust to handle the activity disappear or give News Forum in Manila. That’s right: to attract the program is short and the reporters need up out of sheer exhaustion, the media forum more domestic and international tourists to more time with the forum guests. collapses and folds its tent. Cebu. In 2009, however, noting the guest Also, if the media group behind cancellations and other inadequacies of the [7] How do you explain the forum’s it goes defunct. Or its clients, forum, Joseph, regular host Ricky Rama Poca endurance? the reporters, think they can and other forum trustees asked me to help. The free venue and free breakfast get bigger stories elsewhere, It was then that I proposed that it expand and snacks. The choice of guests. The the range of topics: from just tourism and hosts and coordinators working as unpaid especially if the guest is a business to current or “trending” issues. volunteers. The format that respects guests barren source. Or organizers Initially, rotated yearly among the local as news source and provides media with quarrel over “spoils” and hotels--Parklane International Hotel, Marco staple for their stories and features. other matters. Those Polo Plaza and Waterfront Casino Hotel in And we do not ask, nor receive, too can kill a media Lahug as the first hosts--the venue was fixed anything from our guests, money or forum. upon Marco Polo’s requests. It has been the in kind, or any form of favor. 888 News Forum regular site since then. has so far survived [Interviewed by PACHICO A. SEARES] that. PAS

ELIAS BAQUERO CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 35 Jess Vestil: ‘Renaissance man’

Vestil’s love for his mother language “He was oftentimes critical of radio By Kevin A. Lagunda and country gave birth to “Yutang anchors who spoke the vernacular in Tabunon,” the Cebuano translation of the a wrong manner. Since most of those Philippine . that he listened to were his friends, he The late multi-talented journalist would call them by phone and correct Journalist, publicist, answered the call of then Cebu Gov. them verbatim on their mistakes,” advertising executive—Jess Emilio Osmeña, who sought the Cebuano Melendez said. “In a way, my dad was a Perez Vestil was all that. version of “.” perfectionist when discussing or writing Jess Vestil’s children, including Jane anything in Cebuano. At home, he would Plus teacher, actor and poet Sepulveda Vestil Melendez, consider the automatically correct anyone he heard besides. translation to be their father’s precious when a word was either misspelled or contribution to the Cebuano culture. mispronounced.” “He once said that when we, Melendez said speaking English in Cebuanos, sing the national anthem in their household was a normal thing, and our own tongue, we could feel the anthem their father tolerated them. better,” Melendez said. “It’s as if the words “When we committed errors in using make us cherish our own ‘nasud’ (nation) Cebuano, he would just correct us, and because we understand the lyrics to it.” he oftentimes found humor in the words Vestil, before going to work, turned that he taught us,” she said. “He was a very on the radio for news. He read the papers gentle man, not only to our mom but also after breakfast. to us, his children.” A skilled broadcaster himself and a Vestil, who was born in Cebu on July 8, Lubas sa Dagang Bisaya (Ludabi) member, 1929, had nine children—Annabel, Nicolas, his ears were detectors for incorrect Remedios, Jane, Vivian, Raymundo, usages. Gabriel, Victor and Albert—with Pacita. 36 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

Vivian took up mass communications at , where Vestil was one of the founders of radio dySR. She, however, took her major subjects at St. Theresa’s College (STC) in Cebu City for advertising and public relations. Vivian’s youngest son, Val, is a mass communication graduate from Silliman. Vestil’s Catholic faith led him to initiate with then Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal the six o’clock prayer aired by radio stations in 1990. In 1949, Vestil started his young media career at radio dyRC. Years later, he blossomed in acting, print journalism, television, advertising and public relations. Vestil became the manager and newscaster of ABS-CBN from 1962 to 1972. In the 1960s, Vestil ventured into “He was oftentimes critical of public relations work for a public official and was appointed assistant director radio anchors who spoke the of the publications office of Silliman vernacular in a wrong manner. University, editing the magazine The Banner. Since most of those that he He was also into advertising with Philasia Advertising Associates. listened to were his friends, he In the early days of Martial Law, he would call them by phone and was media consultant of the Philippine Constabulary in . From correct them verbatim on their then on, he became the chief announcer of J. Walter Thompson Advertising Agency mistakes” and led Notre Dame Broadcasting Corp. as its production manager. Jane Sepulveda Vestil Vestil was also the production Melendez re-edit anything and everything he wrote. manager of dxMS in . He Nothing came out from his desk, when he later moved to Dumaguete City to start was connected with the USIS, that was and manage dyRM. affairs specialist of the United States not perfect. He was a perfectionist in his He taught in STC, University of the Information Service (USIS) in Cebu. writing all the time,” Melendez said. Philippines Cebu and Cebu State College. “I remember Daddy Jess to be very Vestil dipped his hands into film by From 1973 to 1991, he was public detailed in writing. He would edit and writing the screenplay of “Pit Senyor” in 1953 and appearing in at least 22 films produced in Cebu and Manila. Aside from his busy life in various fields, Vestil also dabbled in literature and wrote numerous poems and produced books. Melendez said her father gave her and her siblings copies of Richard Bach’s novella, “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.” “He appreciated the writer. He was also a fan of the famous Khalil Gibran,” she said. Contemporaries considered Vestil a Renaissance man. He received several awards including the Most Valuable Filipino, which was given to him by Filipinas Foundation in 1988. Vestil died on April 7, 2006 in Cagayan BEHIND THE MICROPHONE. Jess Vestil interviews Sonny Osmeña (top photo); and Concepcion de Oro City due to complications of Briones, society writer and former Association of Cebu Journalists president (extreme left in middle photo). pneumonia, which ended his years of In above photo, Vestil (second from left) appears with former congressman Antonio Cuenco (extreme left) suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. He and broadcast commentator Miguel “Migs” Enriquez (extreme right). (PHOTOS FROM JESS VESTIL’S FAMILY) was 77. CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 37 New bosses in the newsroom

Archie Mangubat that see the connectedness of all things,” By Gingging A. Campaña Modequillo this filmmaker and TV producer was The Freeman editor-in-chief Archie responsible for the success of major M. Modequillo considers the readers’ shift international TV programs for 17 years. toward social media as the paper’s biggest In the 1980s, Modequillo helped make No day off, reporting in challenge. He wants a change in the paper’s Smash FM Cebu number one while he was three languages—these new culture to rise to the new challenge, and program manager for almost seven years. leaders of the newsroom is confident this can be achieved with Modequillo, who looks up to everyone’s cooperation in “improving Christiane Amanpour and Lee Iacocca, meet challenges head on content and adopting new technologies— adopts the casual, just-one-of-the-boys while keeping the troops even if slowly but consistently.” management style, but vows to strictly A graduate of B.S. Psychology from enforce the rules and “make rules where happy and in line. Still “one the University of San Carlos, Cebu City, there are none.” of the boys,” but they now Modequillo also took up a course in movie On his first week as EIC, he received make the rules. arts and science in Caxton Foundation this e-mail from a reader: “I really knew School in the US. you could do the job. I’ve been following Inspired by the Hollywood producers your writing since years back, and I think I who “never blink amid formidable know you enough to believe you are fit for challenges and the great Oriental sages the position. Congratulations, Ma’am!” 38 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

first, fast and right.” At the height of the Abu Sayyaf terror group’s encounter with the government troops in Bohol last May, Tajapal was alone in the newsroom and had to give updates to their sister stations in three languages: Bisaya, Hiligaynon and Tagalog. There came a time that she mixed up the languages in her report, to the amusement of one of the anchors.

Lucky Pagalan Malicay He had always wanted to become a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, but Lucky P. Malicay’s passion for current events led him to a career in journalism. He looked Jhunnex Gabica finished her broadcasting degree at the up to his father, a voracious reader, a Napallacan West Visayas State University in Iloilo historian and a smart company manager. Mentored by the late longtime City, never saw herself becoming a Malicay rose from the ranks to become Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas manager, especially handling people years the managing editor of The Freeman chairman Cerge Remonde, Jhunnex older than she. and editor-in-chief of Banat News. He Napallacan spent most of his career in She hates confrontations. If she gets was news editor for seven years and copy dyLA from 1996, as a reporter, desk man, mad or scolds them, she is the first to cry, editor for three years. anchor man, newscaster and later as she said in jest. Before joining The Freeman (Cebu), news director before he became station he was news editor of The Freeman manager last year. Mindanao, which used to circulate across Improving dyLA’s finances is Western and Northern Mindanao, from Napallacan’s biggest challenge because 1998 to 2004. But long before that, he was he has to ensure that they can sustain the a reporter for several weekly papers in operation and pay the personnel on time. Mindanao in the early 1990s and became Napallacan had to cut costs and launch a stringer for Agence France new programs to gain more listeners, a Presse. He also writes for factor in attracting advertisers. some online publications, Another test is the lack of personnel, and some of his articles so he does most of the work as early as 4 were published in a.m., including writing the editorials and the Australia-based delivering the regular newscasts. He has The Roar and Digital no day off. But Napallacan is hoping to Journal in Canada. solve everything with the help of the sales The rise of social department. media is his biggest His love for radio drama and high challenge. “We have regard for three veteran broadcasters to compete by drove Napallacan, an information and strengthening The computer science graduate, to work in Tajapal makes it clear to colleagues Freeman’s online and broadcast. He recalls listening back then that they can talk to her, not through social media operations.” to Leo Lastimosa and Edgar Gutierrez, others or through Facebook. Malicay never rules whom he later worked with in dyRF after Before her transfer to Cebu, Tajapal with an iron fist, as graduation. was a Capitol beat reporter and chief of long as everything in his He leads by example and is not bossy, reporters for three years in Bombo Radyo- department runs according but he calls the staff’s attention if they . to plan. “I’m just your become complacent. She notes that most of today’s new ordinary newsroom He also has to deal with complaints. reporters do not know how to speak and boss,” he said. Napallacan says he now understands how write in Cebuano. his predecessors Marit Stinus-Cabugon and “Nawala na tong mga lawm nga Bisaya Jun Tagalog felt then when he complained. nga nindot kaayo paminawon og dali Tagalog told him recently, “Unya, kasuway masabtan sa tanan,” Tajapal said, adding na ka?” (So, you now know what it’s like?) that reading more Cebuano articles and the Bisaya Dictionary would help. For Tajapal, the accuracy of the content Angelie Brito Tajapal is important, especially since there is a lot Bombo Radyo-Cebu OIC news of fake or sensationalized news nowadays. director Angelie Brito Tajapal, who She follows the network’s mantra: “Get it CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 39

HOW I SEE IT [2] As editor-in-chief of Banat News, a fought between the entire industry and the Cebuano-Bisaya daily, and managing digital platforms. FROM HERE editor of The Freeman, an English daily, you shuttle from one desk to another, [5] What are demands on the present in two languages and with different working journalists, particularly your formats. Banat is tabloid in content and reporters, that were not there five or 10 New media landscape size while Freeman is tabloid-sized but years ago? modifies competition with the content of a broadsheet. How Today’s reporters, especially those have you managed it? beginners, should equip themselves with among newspapers Time management. additional weapons. Many of the skills they My association with Banat News started learned from school are no longer applicable in 1998 when I began writing my “Saksak in the real battle. They have to develop their Sinagol” column. From that year, I also served own competence. LUCKY P. MALICAY as its contributing editor until the early . Yes, they still need the basic techniques. is editor-in-chief of Banat News and managing I had already learned every process of its But the presence of online news outlets and editor of The Freeman. He started in the newspaper operation even before I was appointed the social media has so changed the landscape industry as reporter in Mindanao in the 1990s. managing editor in 2014. So when I became that journalists now need to present the its chief editor in February this year, I did not bigger picture of the story, including its Before becoming a journalist, Lucky wanted to be really have a hard time adjusting to my new effects on public lives. a Seventh-day Adventist pastor. But his passion role. for writing and current events led him to embark At The Freeman, I rose from the ranks [6] If a mass-com college asks you on a career in journalism. A native of Tambulig, since 2004. So it was not also hard to adjust what its graduates should learn to be Zamboanga del Sur, he considers Cebu as his second when I became its managing editor in 2014. considered for employment in your home. Lucky is married to a Cebuana, with whom he Good thing The Freeman and Banat newsroom, what would you specify as News share the same newsroom, which the more important skills and values has two daughters. allows me to fulfill my daily responsibilities. they must have? The ability to present a news story that [3] The challenge that most, if not all, satisfies the reader has always been a basic [1] You are an “import” of sorts as you print publications face is how to survive requirement, and for journalism graduates to started learning your journalism skills the change in consumer demand: get the job, they must develop a “nose for in Mindanao, not in Cebu, although readers want their news and information news.” However, knowing how to write a good you have worked here for a decade or whenever and wherever they need it. article is something that can be learned in the so. How did you overcome the initial Newspapers are hobbled by the problem long run. “handicap” of not being a native of a 24-hour news cycle as against the But it’s sad that only few mass-com Cebuano in your job of providing news day-round availability of the product in graduates are interested to work in the media and information to the Cebu audience? other platforms. How has this affected industry nowadays. Most of them prefer to try The moment I arrived in Cebu, I your work as newsroom leader? their luck in business process outsourcing, immediately started to update myself with For newspapers to stay relevant in these the PR world and in big corporations that local current events. The initial “handicap” times, they must introduce new ideas to be offer more monetary benefits. was not really a big deal because I had been more competitive. Since every newspaper I have noticed that many of those who in a similar situation when I was a reporter has its own style, it really depends on what apply for reporter today want the job just for covering Mindanao, specifically Zamboanga direction a particular outlet should pursue. the experience and the thrill of being in the del Sur, Misamis Occidental and Lanao del Unlike before, there is now a lot of pressure media industry. Norte. engulfing the newspaper industry with the Reporters in , being a highly arrival of new platforms. As a newsroom [7] How can a local newspaper stay urbanized area like , were lucky leader, the pressure only drives me to explore relevant to its community in these enough to have easy access to news sources new relevant approaches. times? Tell us where print media can do through the help of technology. During my time a better job than its digital counterparts. in Mindanao in the 1990s, it had been part of [4] How should community newspapers Because of mounting pressure owing to the job to travel for hours to get the story. cope with the need for a different and stiff competition, it’s no longer enough for a better news and information package newspaper to just present a story with all its than what news outlets online offer? details. While telling a story as it happens has Aside from the need to present concrete always been the practice of newspapers in news, community newspapers should also their mission to inform the public, the demand learn to publish stories that offer a more to look beyond the script has become compelling angle. Newspapers always have more important. Going beyond the story the advantage over online news outlets when for the readers to further understand gives it comes to offering solid stories. newspapers the advantage over their digital Unfortunately, the drive to present a story counterparts. with complete details is no longer enough. Yes, physical innovation is one thing Newspapers must innovate, not just physically that should help newspapers stay afloat. but digitally, in order to survive. Therefore, to entice more readers, especially Besides, the battle for survival has now the younger ones, a community newspaper taken a different direction, away from the needs to broaden its physical appeal. traditional competition among newspapers. Today’s real fight to stay relevant is being [Interviewed by PACHICO A. SEARES]

LUCKY MALICAY 40 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 frontliners: what sometimes happen behind the scene

n the scene reporters descend, awards at the Globe Media Excellence piecing together narratives for Awards as Reporter of the Year for TV their audiences like clockwork. and Story of the Year for TV in 2012 Except there is nothing regular (education) and in 2013 for his entry atO all about the job of reporting the news. “AsinSuka”; and first place both in Unfamiliar territory, jargon, security the feature news video and hard news threats, disturbing vistas—here’s a behind- video categories at the Justice Awards the-scenes look at the challenges news (International Justice Mission) in 2013. gatherers face. Jovy T. Gerodias In his 18 years as a journalist, he said he had never met anyone willing to share the stink in their lives until he met the Canadura couple involved in illegal drugs for years. On John Paul “JP” V. Pepito, 24, camera, they disclosed the physical, mental a BA Communication graduate of the and emotional abuse they had committed , has worked for against their three children who, in a SunStar Superbalita [Cebu] since August separate room, cried while sharing their 2014. He was awarded the Best in Live story. Alan and his cameramen wept also. Reporting on Social Media Award at the The lives of the children changed not 2016 SunStar In-House Awards. by human Tokhang, but through divine In October 2014, JP wrote about a Astra Zina Dangcalan intervention after they surrendered man, drunk from brandy, who allegedly Logarta, 27, an AB mass everything to God, Alan said, and the raped a mixed-breed poodle in Barangay communication cum laude graduate of Cubacub, Mandaue City. Habal-habal the University of San Jose-Recoletos, drivers reportedly witnessed the rape. The has been with radio dyHP since January dog’s owner confirmed his pet had been 2010. She has also been a correspondent/ sexually abused. But during the police part-time reporter of CCTN 47 since June investigation, the suspect insisted he had 2011 and a correspondent for SunStar had sex with a lady, not a dog. “Sosyal ang SuperBalita [Cebu] since 2012. She was a brandy, kay gipahimo niya nga babaye Globe Media Excellence awardee in 2012 ang iro,” a police officer said. (“Brandy is and 2013. amazing. It turned the dog into a lady.”) The suspension of former governor The story went viral on social media. and now Rep. in Dec. Most challenging for JP was the 2016 12, 2012 marked the first time Astra did electoral campaign, where he made live not spend Christmas and New Year at videos for the Superbalita Cebu page home with her family. Garcia did not leave during the presidentiables’ sorties in her office at the Capitol until January Cebu. He said Rodrigo 2013, so Astra had to deliver situationer Canadura couple continues the healing Duterte’s campaign reports, especially on how the governor process with the support of good sorties were literally spent her Christmas Eve and New Year’s Samaritans. insane, and his Eve at the Capitol. Alan says a journalist must use not only supporters made But her most challenging coverage his head but also his heart to find the deeper it so. was the special marine board inquiry on stories and go beyond shallow reportage. But there’s a the sinking of the mv Thomas Aquinas in bigger challenge still. the sea off Talisay City on Aug. 16, 2013 “The spread of fake because of the terms used that were new Ogherty “Herty” Lopez, news has become a to her, and the retrieval operations of 24, a graduate of Bachelor in Mass major problem. It’s a those who died in the sea mishap. Communication at the Cebu Institute of challenge to all Technology University, was a call center journalists agent for almost a year before he joined how to Alan Pacional Domingo, 42, the Superbalita [Cebu] team. fight it,” an AB Mass Communication graduate In media for three years now, he was a he said. of the University of San Jose-Recoletos, Cebu Archdiocesan Mass Media Awardee has worked for GMA Network (Regional for Best in Investigative Reporting in 2015. TV) for 18 years, receiving back-to-back During Pope Francis’ visit to CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 41

job was not ordinary. What makes media unique is that one can learn new things every day, even experience a little of what other professions do, she said, adding that one can learn how a disaster officer works today, and then learn some cases in court tomorrow. “You have to embrace that challenge every day for you to learn and become a better media practitioner.”

Johanna Marie O. Bajenting, 21, a graduate of the University of San Jose-Recoletos, has in January 2015, Herty, with the rest of been working for with a (blank) look,” he said. the SunStar team sent to cover the event, SunStar Cebu for People approached his news team, braved the typhoon that hit the city one year and two some begging for help; others, in between on the day of the Pope’s visit. After the months. sobs, handing to him pieces of paper with pope’s mass at the Tacloban Airport for Her first year in their relatives’ contact numbers. the survivors of 2013’s typhoon Yolanda, the media industry was Returning for a follow-up report, the SunStar team walked kilometers to greeted by Abu Sayyaf he stood in awe. “Structures had yet go back to their hotel to write and submit terrorists infiltrating to rise again, but the resiliency of the their stories. the province of Bohol, survivors made me appreciate life But the longer road is ahead. Herty provoking a clash more and the wonders of this thing said the mainstream media should work with the military. called hope. I said to myself, I now together to continue to deliver accurate Her team had only have a story,” said Joworski. and timely stories amid the threat of fake the clothes in their The challenge for media practitioners news/websites. backpacks. Sleep was is to get to the core of the story amid out of the question, overwhelming information. After all, one and they had to run may seek the facts, but what journalists Le Phyllis F. Antojado, 24, an to a thick jungle really need to tell is the truth, he said. AB Mass Communication cum laude with other civilians graduate from the University of San when the Abu Sayyaf started Jose-Recoletos, has been with radio targeting their hiding spot. Gregorio “Gregg” Monterde dyLA since September 2013 and a The experience, however, Rubio Jr., 41, finished his Bachelor correspondent of Banat News/The strengthened Johanna’s of Arts major in English studies at Cebu Freeman since February 2016. faith in the soldiers and Normal University (CNU) in 1998. The calamities in 2013—typhoon police on the front lines His interest in journalism started when Yolanda and the 7.2-magnitude during conflict situations in the country. he became the Cebuano section editor of earthquake—that hit the Visayas, “The biggest challenge that I see for Ang Suga Publication of CNU (formerly including Cebu, made Le realize that her journalism is how it can adapt to the Cebu State College). He joined a media changing times, especially when it comes volunteers group called Bantay Barangay to accountability and responsibility in of BantayRadyo, and later organized social media for matters which involve the school-based Bantay Barangay CSC everyone’s security,” she said. Chapter, which produced two successful media practitioners and now editors of The Freeman, Joworski Alipon, 29, a mass Johnrey Saavedra and communication graduate of the University Emmanuel Villaruel. of San Jose-Recoletos, has worked for He became a ABS-CBN since 2010. On Nov. 9, 2013, a day reporter for Bantay after typhoon Yolanda hit, he flew to the Radyo in April 1998, devastated city of Tacloban. news correspondent “It was my birthday, but I never of Banat News in doubted that this call of duty would bring 1999 and The out the best lessons in life. I saw cadavers Freeman in scattered everywhere. People wept. 2000. In Some survivors, whose houses had been November pulverized, sat in one corner of the street, 2001, Gregg 42 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

was hired by - dyHP Cebu while he continued to work for The Freeman and Banat News. He became a tourism and information officer of Daanbantayan, Cebu on July 1, 2007, but left in September 2010 to return to The Freeman as a full-time correspondent and later, staff reporter. He has been president of the Capitol Association of Reporters in Tri-media since 2011, and vice president of the Cebu Federation of Beat Journalists in 2012 and since 2014. He began editing work in The Freeman in 2013 and months later in Banat News, with a plea to the manager, Bhoy Mendoza, that he be allowed to continue writing news. “I love news writing, as I vow to die with my pen. But I also cannot say no to Lou-anne Mae L. Rondina, 36, He handed Banat News its first Cebu the growth of my position as an editor and a mass communication graduate of St. Archdiocesan Mass Media Awards for the call for service to help uplift the lives Theresa’s College, has been a Cebu news Best in News Stories in 2001 and Best in of my fellow journalists, their families and correspondent of GMA7 since September Investigative Reporting in 2007 with wins the communities,” said Gregg, who is also 2005. She hosted the now defunct “Isyu in these categories. Edwin sees the need a board member of the Cebu Newscoop. Karon Central Visayas,” a weekly magazine for mainstream media to innovate to keep show of GMA7 Cebu, and was a news up with digital trends, considering that anchor of “Buena Mano Balita,” GMA7 most people now prefer to get their news Victor Anthony V. Silva, 23, a Cebu’s morning show, for all its eight years. through social media. mass communication graduate of the One of her most challenging University of the Philippines Cebu, has assignments was the arrival of the been a reporter for Cebu Daily News since hundreds of dead bodies of the passengers Razel V. Cuizon, 26, a mass 2014. That year, typhoon Queenie hit of the capsized mv Princess of the Stars in communication graduate of the Malabuyoc town. “Interviewing an eight- Cebu in 2008. University of San Jose-Recoletos, has year-old boy who stared death in the face “I had to endure the rancid smell and been a staff reporter of SunStar Cebu and hearing him recall his mother’s last suck all that fear in because people were since 2013. Before joining SunStar, Razel words, ‘Mamatay na ko,’ was probably my waiting for that crucial information, was a field reporter and program anchor most memorable coverage,” said Victor. especially the relatives of the victims,” of dyRC Radyo Cebu from 2011 to 2014. The boy, Jason Baldado, survived the she said, adding that the good thing about Whether on a rest day or out storm’s wrath, but his mother perished being a journalist is the altruism and celebrating a town fiesta, Razel said, the trying to save him. ability to narrate moving unadulterated call to deliver the news is something With the proliferation of fake stories of real and inspiring people. a reporter cannot say “no” to. She was news and unreliable sources on social Social media is one of the biggest at home on Aug. 16, 2013 when dyRC media, Victor said journalists must challenges of mainstream media, she said, instructed her to cover a sea mishap in take a proactive role in educating the with many people unable to differentiate a Lauis Ledge, Talisay City, and go on the air masses. “It’s not enough that we give them credible news site from a satirical site. to deliver a situationer. For a month, Razel the truth through our covered the search and rescue operations. stories. We also need More than a month later, Razel had to help them discern Edwin Ian B. Melecio, 40, was a to put her day off aside again to cover the which are the blatant third year political science student of the lies.” when his interest in photography led him to join The Freeman in 2001 as a correspondent-photojournalist. He started writing stories for both Banat News and The Freeman the following year. He later became senior reporter for Banat News, and now, Banat news editor. During the mudslide in Barangay Guinsaugon in Saint Bernard town, Southern Leyte that killed more than 1,000 village folk in 2006, Edwin and his team stayed there for a week to keep Cebuano readers updated on the search and retrieval operation and how survivors were coping with the crisis. CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 43

destruction caused by the 7.2-magnitude University of the Visayas. earthquake that brought her not only to Jepoy found his love in broadcasting different parts of Cebu but Bohol Province when he had his engineering practicum as well. Then typhoon Yolanda struck the with the Nation Broadcasting Corp. Visayas in November. Razel was sent to (NBC) where he volunteered to cover the Tacloban City to report on the destruction 1991 deadly flash flood in Ormoc City. On Yolanda had brought onto the city. Oct. 16, 1992, he became a field reporter of Cebu. On Feb. 24, 1997, he moved to RGMA dySS John M. Destacamento, 28, is a radio, where he now handles a morning management accounting graduate of the show program, Pamukaw, from 4 to 5 a.m. University of San Carlos, but his passion and an afternoon entertainment radio for writing brought him to The Freeman program from 4 to 6 p.m. five years ago. Starting as an assistant On the field, he will never forget the business editor and a reporter for the time an allegedly “drunk” cop hit him with section in 2013, John was promoted a piece of wood. He filed an administrative to handle The Freeman’s Metro News case, which ended five years later with the section in 2014. He is now the assignments police officer getting suspended from the and day desk editor. Rowena D. Capistrano, 35, has service. The launch of the yellow submarine in been in media for almost seven years. She “A true broadcaster must get Cebu was unforgettable for John. is a field reporter and anchor of an evening information from legitimate sources,” While other members of the media program in radio dyRF Radyo Fuerza, and which would be useful to listeners,” were having fun during the maiden voyage, a correspondent for Banat News. said Jepoy who, apart from being a “my hands were starting to feel clammy. Rowena’s journey to the media broadcaster, is also a sports enthusiast I was sweating profusely, though it was industry started when she led a group of and a funeral parlor owner. very cold inside. My throat dried up. My youngsters for a training under the Parish head felt light. My body temperature rose,” Journalist project of Archbishop Emeritus prompting the Korean captain to heed his Ricardo Cardinal Vidal representing the Kristine Boticario Quintas, request to resurface the submarine. He felt Archdiocesan Shrine of San Roque. The 24, a mass communications graduate from sorry for his fellow media members. training was held at the University of the University of San Jose-Recoletos, was San Jose-Recoletos. Prior to the project, Rowena, better known as “Wang-Wang,” had received broadcast training from Fr. Dan Delos Angeles. Wang-Wang’s dream came true when she secured an exclusive interview with Jeffrey “Jaguar” Diaz, believed to be one of the biggest drug traders in Central Visayas, days before he was gunned down by the authorities in 2016. Wang-Wang recalled Jaguar’s last words before they parted ways, “Sakto na ni. Nakapagawas na ko sa akong gibati nimo, ug bahala na sila unsa ilang hunahunaon nako. Salig ko nimo.” (I have laid my sentiments before you. Let them think whatever they want about me. I trust you.) For Wang-Wang, the rivalry between genuine members of the media and those For John, the most pressing issue who are pretending to be journalists a radio reporter for dyLA in March 2013. Cebu media faces is the dearth of talent. (“media-media”) is the challenge Six months later, she became a full- Co-handling the internship program of that needs to be addressed. time reporter for The Freeman, The Freeman, he has observed that only She said journalists should then copy editor earlier this a handful express interest in pursuing continue serving the public by year. media work later on. delivering the truth. She won the top prize “We’re losing talented workers in the audio category (hard because the industry is not paying them news) during the 2013 Justice well. As a matter of personal advocacy, Jeffrey “Jepoy” Award for reporting on human I always tell students during lectures Tumulak, 49, trafficking of the Pecojon and that journalism is not the place to go to finished his International Justice Mission. become rich. That they need to have a mechanical The Freeman also named huge arsenal of passion if they wish to engineering her Enterprising Reporter practice media work.” course at the of the Year in 2016. 44 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

Covering the collision of a passenger vessel and tanker off Talisay City in 2013 was tough for Kristine. Delivering situationers before daybreak, she saw familiar faces among survivors bathed in blood or covered in grease. Many were her friends, schoolmates, relatives and acquaintances from her hometown in Surigao del Norte. Hundreds survived, but not her father’s second degree cousin and niece. Interviewing survivors in Cebu City’s funeral homes, Kristine fought to keep her emotions in check amid the pile of cadavers, stench of the dead, and wailing of grieving families. Looking ahead, she said with Facebook and other social media providing new paths for journalism, the modern audience doesn’t work hard to find the news anymore. So journalists must write, report and market their stories more effectively and interestingly; create a presence on the Internet; and work harder to transform the business of providing news and information. Through constant innovation and continuous reinvestment, we ensure DRIVING that our estates remain to be the Jose Santino S. Bunachita, 24, preferred places for business, living a mass communication graduate of the SUSTAINED and leisure. University of the Philippines Cebu, has been working for Cebu Daily News since Looking forward, we continue 2012. He placed second in the feature GROWTH to find opportunities to develop category of the 2013 Justice Awards. new growth centers and other The year 2013 saw rookie reporters businesses that will drive the like Santino hone their skills by covering economy of Metro Cebu tomorrow. three major tragedies that year–a ship collision, the 7.2-magnitude earthquake, and super typhoon Yolanda. A native of Bohol, Santino said it was CEBU I.T. PARK heartbreaking to make a feature story on the destruction caused by the earthquake that destroyed the province’s old and beautiful churches, especially the Our Lady of Assumption Shrine in Dauis, where he comes from. Santino said, “It’s always either so easy or very difficult to deal with stories that hit closest to home. And it’s a challenge for all journalists across platforms and even amid the changes brought by technology.”

20F Cebu Tower Bohol St., Cebu Business Park Cebu City, Cebu 6000 Philippines www.cebuholdings.com CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 45

Cebu Citizens-Press Council resolutions, statements, Cebu Citizens- standards and advisories Press Council:

LAW ENFORCEMENT, Aug. 31, 2006. Roundtable discussion with law enforcement officials and the Commission on Human Rights on Reaching out standards in describing and identifying We do a lot of consulting. Before CCPC speaks out. crime suspects.

2006 Standards on describing or onsultation is the core of statements of CCPC are circulated among CCPC’s work: as forum for its members and vetted on legal points identifying crime suspects | media issues, platform for by legal adviser Cemla (Cebu Media Sept. 21, 2006 grievance, advocate of free Legal Aid) before they are submitted to 2006 Standards on covering priests and Cspeech and free press, and catalyst for the en banc membership and then to the religious officials | Dec. 5, 2006 journalists’ welfare. authority or sector concerned. 2006 Resolution making appeal to The Cebu press doesn’t isolate itself Understanding of a contentious media and public officials on within its media platforms. With its issue begins with the consultation, in a Asean Summit | Dec. 5, 2006 citizen partners, the press reaches out cluster meeting or at the full-body CCPC and listens. Person-to-person, up close, assembly. Even before the authority or in forums outside of the newspaper or sector addressed by a CCPC document, 2007 Resolution on media coverage of broadcast station and its vehicle. acts or chooses not to act on it. At times, the May 2007 elections | March Media representatives sit down that’s rewarding enough. Pachico A. 20, 2007 and talk with government leaders. Or Seares 2007 Resolution reminding the press with law enforcers, bishops and imams, of standards of law and practice prosecutors and judges, election officers on the coverage of women and and poll guardians, publicists and P.R.O.s, children | March 20, 2007 future journalists, among others. Of diverse interests but with the shared 2007 Resolution opposing Senate and ideal of having a vigorous yet responsible House bills legislating right to press. And in turn they listen to media, in reply | Dec. 14, 2007 a continuing conversation that, each side 2008 Resolution on decriminalizing hopes, will bring some public good. PROSECUTORS AND JUDGES, June 19, libel | March 24, 2008 Drafts of resolutions and public 2008. Dialogue between justice beat reporters and prosecutors, judges and the deputy ombudsman on 2008 Resolution on promoting journalists’ access to information. welfare | March 24, 2008

2009 Resolution on improving media coverage of the 2010 elections | Dec. 2, 2009 2010 Statement on slapping of reporter Lesley Caminade | Aug. 12, 2010 2010 Resolution on twin issues of prosecuting broadcast networks and broadcasters and legislating standards on covering hostage crises and other emergencies | Sept. 23, 2010 RELIGIOUS OFFICIALS, Dec. 5, 2006. Consultation with priests, pastors and an imam on the coverage 2010 Resolution on the issues of religious officials. raised about the documentary 46 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

“Corruption of Media: the Cebu Setting” | Nov. 2013 Resolution congratulating and expressing 16, 2010 appreciation for journalism honors won by Nini B. 2011 Joint CCPC-Cemla statement on the complaint Cabaero and Eileen G. Mangubat | Dec. 5, 2013 filed by CDN correspondent Carmel Loise Matus 2014 Statement on the FOI bill | March 12, 2014 and publisher/acting editor-in-chief Eileen 2014 Resolution expressing the stand of the CCPC Mangubat against Police Supt. Henry Biñas | on the decision of the Supreme Court declaring Feb. 22, 2011 online libel as constitutional | April 10, 2014 2011 Statement on the murder of broadcaster 2014 Statement on Caib raids | July 8, 2014 Marlina Flores-Sumera | March 25, 2011 2014 Resolution repeating and clarifying stand of PUBLICISTS, Dec. 2, 2009. Consultation 2011 CCPC-Cemla resolution on the policy on with media handlers, PR practitioners and CCPC on obscenity and confiscation of printed summons from local legislatures | June 30, political strategists ahead of the 2010 publications by the anti-indecency board | July 2011 elections. 17, 2014 2014 Resolution on proposed amendments to Cebu 2011 Statement on CCAIB move vs. Superbalita and City ordinance on anti-obscenity | Sept. 25, Banat News | August 4, 2011 2014 2011 Resolution on House Bill 2901 proposing 2014 Resolution encouraging the community press amendments to provisions on libel in the to help curb impunity through vigilance against Revised Penal Code | Dec. 6, 2011 conditions that promote it | Dec. 11, 2014 2011 Resolution on the proposed ordinance, originally 2015 Statement on Paris massacre | Jan. 8, 2015 titled Anti-tabloid Ordinance but already 2015 Statement on Sotto Law amendment regarding overhauled and re-titled, seeking to ban media accreditation | Jan. 20, 2015 obscene printed materials in Cebu Province 2015 Statement on ombudsman policy of releasing and to create an Anti-Obscenity Board | Dec. 6, information, documents to media | April 20, 2011 2015 2012 Statement on death of Isagani Yambot | March POLICE, June 30, 2011. Discussion with 2015 Statement on declaration of Sept. 21 as Cebu 6, 2012 police officials on guidelines for media Press Freedom Day | Sept. 9, 2015 2012 Resolution reiterating support for libel coverage during crisis situations. 2015 Statement on House, local legislatures decriminalization | March 29, 2012 approving Press Freedom Day | Sept. 17, 2015 2012 Resolution requesting approval of consolidated bill on the Freedom of Information Act of 2012 2015 Statement on death of Letty Jimenez- | Sept. 20, 2012 Magsanoc | Dec. 26, 2015 2012 Resolution questioning provisions on internet 2016 Statement on the death of Napoleon Rama | libel in the new Cybercrime Prevention Act of Jan. 11, 2016 2012 | Sept. 28, 2012 2016 Statement on President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s 2012 Statement on FOI and Sotto law | Nov. 29, 2012 views on media killings | June 1, 2016 2013 Personal statement of Pachico Seares on Sugbo 2016 Statement on the executive order on FOI | July TV closure | Jan. 3, 2013 24, 2016 2013 Statement on the death of June Kintanar | Jan. 2016 CCPC resolution #1, Series of 2016 requesting 4, 2013 local governments to help fulfill the intent 2013 Personal statement of Pachico Seares on of Freedom of Information (FOI) as initially the suspension of Bobby Nalzaro’s column in provided by Executive Order No. 02, series ELECTION STAKEHOLDERS, Dec. 10, SunStar Cebu | Jan. 10, 2013 2015. Consultations with the Commission 2016, signed by President Duterte July 23, 2013 Statement on CCPC lauding policy on parading on Elections, and election watchdogs 2016, and as proposed in an FOI law to be suspects | Jan. 30, 2013 C-Cimpel and Dilaab Foundation. enacted by Congress. | Sept. 22, 2016 2013 Resolution reiterating support to, and urging 2016 Opinion on the proposed Freedom of passage of, bills that aim to benefit community Information Ordinance of the journalists and media | July 18, 2013 | Nov. 6, 2016 2013 CCPC-Cemla joint statement on Leo 2016 Opinion On Gov. Junjun Davide’s Executive Lastimosa’s conviction of libel | Aug. 30, 2013 Order #15, S. 2016 | Nov. 24, 2016 2013 Statement on the murder of Jesus Tabanao | 2016 CCPC resolution #2, Series of 2016 on Sept. 16, 2013 Mandaue’s gag order | Dec. 1, 2016 2013 Statement on the journalists affected by 2017 CCPC Advisory on news feed from Malacañang typhoon Yolanda | Nov. 14, 2013 | March 3, 2017 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 47 Of readership and citizenship: A library’s tale

a call for more donations of journalism books to the CJJ Book Project. “As long as books are still published, there are always readers,” Seares emailed this writer. “There is still room for more books on these shelves,” Lim pointed out in a separate email. I share the optimism of Seares and Lim that there will not only be books to fill the shelves of the CJJ Book project. More important, there will be readers who will open the books and take their contents to mind, if not heart. During the planning of the CJJ Book project, other academics and journalists brainstormed with the SunStar Cebu journalists and CCPC media advocates. Professors Nestor Ramirez, chairman of the Department of Journalism and Communications of the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R), and Karlon N. CJJ BOOKS. Nestor Ramirez, president of the Cebu Association of Communication Educators; Councilor Rama, who lectures on journalism at the Nendell Hanz Abella, chairman of the Cebu City Council’s committee on education; and Rep. Raul del Mar University of San Carlos (USC), joined (Cebu City, 1st District) chat at the CJJ Books section in the Cebu City Public Library. their former media colleagues. A SunStar Cebu columnist and Monday editorial writer, I also handle journalism courses at the University of the Philippines (UP) During the 45th quarterly meeting of Cebu’s College of Communication, Art By Mayette Q. Tabada the CCPC on Dec. 1, 2016, the country’s and Design. longest active citizens-press council A radio commentator, Ramirez leads entered into a memorandum of agreement the Cebu Association of Communication with the Cebu City Public Library (CCPL) Educators (Cace), which gathers the When I heard about to gather journalism books and related faculty of the colleges and universities the Cebu Citizens-Press materials for a nook at the library, located offering Mass Communication in Cebu Council’s (CCPC) call for at the ground floor of the Rizal Memorial City. Rama is the national coordinator Library and Museum. of The Peace and Conflict Journalism book donations for its Cebu Book shelves were donated to the Network (Pecojon). Journalism and Journalists CCPL, including 230 books on journalism The CCPC and its partners in coming from SunStar Cebu and its public academe, journalism, and media (CJJ) Book project, I and standards editor Pachico A. Seares, advocacy groups planned how students, thought how history has a who is also the CCPC executive director. specially those aspiring to become future way of coming full circle. Seares and fellow editor and CCPC journalists, can use the CJJ Book project deputy director Cherry Ann T. Lim made as references for media studies. 48 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

The possibility was also mulled to basic right to information and education. encourage Mass Communication student Volunteers such as the Friends of Do books still matter? and faculty researchers to share copies of the Cebu City Public Library and the their studies on local journalism with the Basadours, a group of reading (basa) In this digital age, will anyone still flip CCPL’s readers, which embraces everyone ambassadors led by Cebu Daily News through the pages of a book when an as this is the only public library in Cebu. reporter Cris Evert Lato-Ruffolo, conduct Internet search will yield without qualms The third CCPC undertaking on media regular Story Time storytelling sessions a world of content on every question literacy—after the annual publication and campaign for donations of children’s under the sun? of the Cebu Journalism and Journalists story books. There’s no match for this straight- magazine timed with every observance of At the CCPL, the Basadours launched to-one’s mobile phone content delivery the Cebu Press Freedom Week (CPFW), its Project I Love to Read MORE (Moving service, for sure. But it will only deliver as well as the Cebu Journalism and Onward to Reading Empowerment). They what is online. CJJ Books, a section of the Journalists (CJJ) Gallery launched on aim to organize more storytelling sessions Cebu City Public Library, is a trove Sept. 24, 2010 at the Museo Sugbo—the in Cebu and neighboring provinces; of material that may no longer be CJJ Book project is not at all the first donate books to barangay reading centers; available elsewhere in Cebu—printed citizen-initiated undertaking related to and generally promote children’s love of books and magazines, audio books books and literacy benefiting the CCPL. reading through non-traditional means and video films and documentaries Landmark such as reading aloud activities, role- related to media. The CCPL is part of a heritage playing and puppet shows. Here, in print, international authors landmark located along Osmeña Even in the face of stiff competition and news organizations bare the secrets Boulevard known to locals and visitors as from new media and mobile of their craft in biographies, practical the Rizal Memorial Library and Museum. communications-enabled reading, the guides, and visual feasts of their best Its pristine neoclassical facade is CCPC’s call for paper books on journalism photographs and design. iconic for the central statue depicting does not faze advocates for reading. Paper books aren’t going out of style Dr. Jose Rizal in an unusual tableau. A The CCPL is no stranger to anytime soon. large tome opened on the national hero’s vicissitudes. From its establishment in In 2016, sales of physical books lap is perused by him and his young Parian on April 13, 1919 to the library’s and journals climbed seven percent companions, a boy and a girl. transfer to the Rizal Memorial Library and children’s books 16 percent in According to MyCebu.ph, then Cebu and Museum in 1939, the wartime the United Kingdom, as e-book sales Gov. Sotero B. Cabahug led citizens in dumping of its book collection at the dropped 17 percent, according to the raising funds through literary-musical Cebu Provincial Capitol, its reopening in UK’s Publishers Association. In the programs and carnival-expositions 1954, its closure again for renovations in United Sates, paperback sales grew 7.5 conducted every Rizal Day since 1919. 2008, reopening in 2010, to its current percent and hardcover 4.1 percent, as Construction began in 1935. On Dec. unceasing struggle for funds and support, e-book sales slid 18.7 percent in the first nine months of 2016, the Association of 30, 1939, the Rizal Memorial Library and the CCPL counts on Cebuanos, and vice American Publishers reported. Museum was inaugurated. versa. Young people drove the paper book Accompanying the memorial of Rizal Where there will be books, there sales in the UK, as they sought an with the young readers is a plaque that will be readers. Pepe and his young escape from their devices and social dedicates the building “To the memory of companions stand outside the CCPL as media. CTL the most outstanding Filipino educator, sentinels. patriot, and martyr who is conscious of the importance of education.” During the Second World War, the Japanese Imperial Army used the Rizal Memorial Library and Museum as a headquarters. Its collection of books was ejected and “dumped in a nook at the Capitol Building,” according to MyCebu.ph. Despite the invaders’ cavalier treatment of the CCPL books, historical accounts still had a happy ending when, in answer to public clamor, the Cebu City Public Library reopened in 1954. The Cebu City Government also allocates a budget for the library collection and expenses for its operations. Filling the gaps The CCPL’s wartime brush with OPENING. Councilor Nendell Hanz Abella, chairman of the Cebu City Council’s committee on education; displaced books has not recurred. On the and Rep. Raul del Mar (Cebu City, 1st District) (third and fourth from left, respectively) prepare to cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the CJJ Books section devoted to journalism books and other journalism- other hand, the library’s brushes with lack related materials at the Cebu City Public Library. With them during the May 5, 2017 opening were (from left) of funds and surfeit of bureaucracy have Rosario Chua, librarian of the Cebu City Public Library; Nestor Ramirez, president of the Cebu Association also inspired many Cebuanos to step up of Communication Educators; Cherry Ann Lim, deputy director of the Cebu Citizens-Press Council (CCPC), once more to fill the gaps in delivering this and Pachico Seares, executive director of the CCPC. CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 49 STILL PHOTOS IN THE AGE OF THE VIDEO

Can photojournalism are produced and shared. The new photographer who elevates photography technology attracted a younger and more into an art medium. His striking stay relevant? numerous band of practitioners who are composition of stand-alone still in a mad dash to take over the castle. As photographs dazzled his viewers and In the darkened highway illuminated in any revolution, there are casualties. inspired succeeding photographers. He by the headlights of cars, a bystander was Kodak, the iconic company whose name is also went into photo essay, a multi-photo quietly documenting on his smartphone synonymous to photography, is its biggest presentation that tells a story. The photo two young men confronting each other victim. Then there are the smaller and essay reached its zenith in the work of over a traffic issue. After some heated largely unaccounted photo entities that photographers such as W. Eugene Smith exchange of words, one took a gun and folded shop. And in the vast wasteland of Life Magazine. fired at the other person. Pandemonium are older photographers who stubbornly Even early on, the desire to introduce ensued. In a matter of seconds, the video refuse to follow the beat of the new drum, motion has pushed photo engineers to was downloaded on Facebook. And before preferring to stick around in the old the invention of the motion cameras the night was over, the video had gone terminal and dreaming of the past. in the 1890s. The moving pictures, or viral. Since its inception in 1839, photography the movies, took on a life of its own. Welcome to the brave new world of has always been in a state of flux. A product Because of its advancement in the field instantaneous sharing of information! of the Industrial Revolution, the camera of art and science, movies eventually And as a photographer, you can’t help but started as a technical curiosity. It gradually earned the moniker as the seventh art. ask, can photography keep pace with the metamorphosed into a commercially Farther down the road, television was new media world order? viable medium for recording the fleeting born, a telecommunication marvel that Photography, as we knew it, has moments of history, both communal approximates the movement of movies recently gone through a dramatic and and personal. And in the hands of artists, but has the advantage of being broadcast. decidedly major photography regaled the unbelievers with Through all these developments, still makeover. The creative output many thought could not be photography has continued to blossom shift from film brought out from a mechanical toy. as a medium for art and commerce. But to digital is Among the giants in in the new age of the social media, can earth-shaking. photography is Andre Kertesz, photography stay relevant? Stay tuned for The transition is a Hungarian-born more developments. Robert Pableo Lim ushered in by the entry of a brand-new technology which redefined how photographs GOOD VS. EVIL | Aldo Nelbert Banaynal | The Freeman Drawing on pop culture as reference, the sight of two performers dressed as bird- men automatically leads the viewer to associate it with the popular TV fantasy series Mulawin. 50 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 Amid glut of images, which will endure

News photographers have not been marginalized by the onset of digital media. Far from it. Their audience has not been shrunk; it has expanded. Still images are used not just in newspapers; they’re on TV. And they’re online: in “layering” of content, they help seize and hold attention. Increase in the number of platforms, as vital component of news and features, came with, or was preceded by, the shift to digital equipment and new photo techniques. Which enable them to shoot and store as many images as they need and want. Which provide a necessary component of media content, in whatever form or device they are presented. CJJ has tried to help promote photojournalism as crucial to information-giving as the words from reporters and opinion-makers. Recording these select photos, in print and digital form, from the past year’s work of Cebu news publications, may remind news photographers their work or some of it, used in several news cycles, may survive time and stand out in the welter of images the current “mass of media” brings. Pachico A. Seares

LOST IN THE DEPTHS | Ferdinand R. Edralin | Cebu Daily News | June 10, 2017 SHABU SA PRISOHAN | Joy Torrejos | Banat News | August 14, 2016 For many of us who don’t go diving under the sea, photographs like this are A powerful stand-alone photo that otherworldly. We tend to associate it with the James Bond movie Thunderball portrays the gritty state of things in or the sci-fi novel 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea by Jules Verne. CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 51

SNAKE | Amper Campaña | SunStar Cebu | June 18, 2017 Ophidiophobia is the fear of snakes, and according to Google, it is the second most common phobia by man. It’s no wonder that many of us recoil at the sight of a snake, even if we are merely looking at a photograph. DANCE | Alex Badayos | SunStar Cebu | January 15, 2017 This photograph illustrates the concept of “cuteness overload,” as it shows a young tot dressed to resemble the venerated Santo Niño de Cebu as the focal performer in a dance offering.

LANDSLIDE | Amper Campaña | SunStar Cebu | January 22, 2017 The composition of the lone house at the top of the hill and the passenger jeepneys below separated by the moving earth in between articulates the sense of imbalance of a landslide.

Comment on photos by Robert Pableo Lim

the current administration’s war on drugs. Showing stripped naked prisoners and heavily armed policemen, the photo touches and insinuates on many current issues. 52 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 KADAOGAN | Aldo Nelbert Banaynal | Banat News | June 12, 2017

The image of a flag never fails to awaken strong emotions. One immediately recalls the Pulitzer Prize-winning photo of the raising of the American flag during World War II in the Japanese island of Iwo Jima. In the counterculture era of the ‘60s, the flag was also a staple visual prop, as can be seen in the iconic album cover of the English band The Who, where its members were seen draped by the British flag while sleeping on a sidewalk.

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Allan Cuizon Jose Allan Defensor The working press Ruel Rosello CARTOONISTS CJJ has regularly published this roster of working members of Cebu media from lists Rolan John Alberto submitted by their respective news organizations. Basis for inclusion is doing actual journalism Josua Cabrera work and being paid for it. John Gilbert Manantan

THE FREEMAN PRINT MEDIA Dr. Philip Chua Chelzee Salera Aissa dela Cruz Justin Vestil EDITORS CEBU DAILY NEWS Fr. Randy Figuracion Tiffany Neri Vanessa Balbuena Fr. Dondon Aquino Patricia Catan Joefel Banzon EDITORS Belle Grandea Jiji Borlasa Edralyn L. Benedicto Ustadz Haron Magadapa CONTRIBUTORS John Destacamento Stephen Bernard O. Capillas Calixto Pacquiao Katrina Charmaine Avila Rolex Elmido Dennis B. Singson Jaime Picornell Karl Cabilao Chino Gabutina Doris C. Bongcac Loreen Sarmiento Robert Pableo Lim Fred Languido Enrico C. Gabuya Mercedes Zamora Jenara Regis Newman Lemuel Maglinte Ma. Midorie M. Lijauco Stefan and Margie Zen Lucky Malicay Maria Niza G. Mariñas OPINION COLUMNISTS Rene Martel Brian Mikhael J. Ochoa PHOTOGRAPHERS Eddie Barrita Archie Modequillo Tito P. Tan Antonio E. Despojo Nini Cabaero Divine Ngujo Connie E. Fernandez Christian Maningo Orlando Carvajal Grecar Nilles Rose H. Borromeo Wenceslao “Junjie” H. Mendoza Lelani Echaves-Paredes Joeberth Ocao Bingo Y. Gonzalez Amelito M. Tecson Elias Espinoza Bryan Roy Padilla Ferdinand Edralin Mel Libre Kristine Quintas REPORTERS Melanie Lim John Rey Saavedra Jose Santino S. Bunachita CARTOONIST Francisco Malilong Jr. Jeremias Tundag Calvin Cordova Renato Elevera Emmanuel Mongaya Emmanuel Villaruel Ador Vincent S. Mayol Pablito Nalzaro Glendale G. Rosal Myke Obenieta REPORTERS Nestle Semilla Ma. Theresa Tabada Iris Mariani Algabre Victor Anthony V. Silva SUNSTAR CEBU Clydyl Avila Raffy Cabristante CORRESPONDENTS EDITORS OTHER COLUMNISTS Ehda Dagooc Reynaldo F. Alima Anna Marie Abellana-Aznar Dominador Almirante Jean Marvette Demecillo Edison delos Angeles Kristin Aldana-Lerin Allan Batuhan Grace Melanie Lacamiento Jhunnex Napallacan Olga Aledo-Campaña Elisabeth Baumgart Odessa Leyson Norman V. Mendoza Isolde Amante Joanna Cuenco Carlo Lorenciana Michelle Joy L. Padayhag Marites Villamor-Ilano Sam Costanilla Caecent Magsumbol Jonas Rey Panerio Jujemay Awit Mila Espina Mylen Manto Apple Mae Ta-as Marian Gladys Baring Clint Fabiosa May Miasco James Savellon Publio Briones III Dulce Festin-Baybay Ermida Moradas Rabboni Borbon Katlene Cacho Noemi Fetalvero Mitchelle Palaubsanon John Carlo Villaruel Cherry Ann Lim Kristalle Garcia-Kekert Yasunari Ramon Taguchi Morexette Marie Erram Michael Jerome Limpag Michael Jerome Limpag Christell Tudtud Marc Eric Cosep Lorenzo Niñal Zosimo Literatus Benjie B. Talisic Luis Quibranza III Evelyn Luab OPINION COLUMNISTS Fe Marie Dumaboc Linette Marie Ramos-Cantalejo Darwin John Moises Ruben Almendras Inna Gian Mejia Pachico Seares Jerome Neri Valeriano “Bobit” Avila Cris Evert Lato-Ruffolo Michelle So Nelia Neri Cherry Ballescas Jovy Taghoy-Gerodias Wilson Ng Fr. Roy Cimagala Noel Villaflor OPINION COLUMNISTS Michelle Palmares Joseph Gonzales Candido Wenceslao John Pages Josephus Jimenez Malou G. Apalisok Januar Yap Dr. Jose Eleazar Bersales Albert Pedrosa Leo Lastimosa Princess Felicitas Froilan Quijano Annie Fe Perez Dr. Madrileña de la Cerna Deneb Batucan Ret. Judge Simeon Dumdum Maria Dee Seares-del Rosario Avenecio Piramide Fernando Fajardo Roger Serna Ian Vincent Manticajon REPORTERS Jerome Dominic Neri Paul Clarence Oaminal Raymund Fernandez Edri Adolphus Aznar Sofia Logarta Pio Solon Elias Baquero Enrique Soriano Nigel Paul Villarete Fr. Francis B. Ongkingco Johanna Bajenting Radel Paredes Letecia Suarez-Orendain Richiel Chavez Chinggay Utzurrum OTHER COLUMNISTS Gerard Pareja Razel Cuizon Roderic R. Poca Jedd Uy Fidel Abalos Geronimo Dalipe Ana Liza Villamor Nestor Alonso II Atty. Gloria E. Ramos Rona Joyce Fernandez Romulo Suarez Alexis Yap Jose Vicente Araneta Jeandie Galolo Enrique Calderon Jason Baguia Flornisa Gitgano Atty. Ruphil Bañoc PHOTOGRAPHERS Alan Choachuy Kevin Lagunda Arni Aclao Grace Chong Monica Lopez Alex Badayos Romelinda Cruz-Garces OTHER COLUMNISTS Romilio Manlosa Isabel Baccay Amper Campaña Vernon Joseph Go 54 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12

Chris Malazarte Erwin Lirazan DYCM MEGA CEBU NEWS WRITERS Bobby Motus Ogherty Lopez Janry Egona Rico Navarro John Paul Pepito PROGRAM ANCHORS Fritzie Padla Kathy Oyson Jonathan Tumulak Johnley Bayking Marchoflix T. Lucabon Henry Schumacher Elias Espinoza Jennifer Toledo-Tan CORRESPONDENTS Frank Malilong Nancy Toledo Arnold Bustamante Eric Siras Manait Raffy Uytiepo Guamitos Logroño Rico Osmeña DYMR RADYO Flor Ynclino Dennes Tabar Jess Villarba Alan Tangcawan Peter Fria PROGRAM ANCHORS PHOTOGRAPHERS Astra Zina Logarta Juanita M. Antiporta Aldo Nelbert Banaynal REPORTERS Anabelle C. Lagrosas Kristine Joyce Campaña CONTRIBUTORS Bryan Sido (Bogo) Jay Rommel Labra Timmy Basil Roland Tul-id (Bogo) Paul Jun Rosaroso Doods Daclan Linley Villamor (Bogo) Angelito “Joy” Torrejos Norenito Felomiana DYRB RADIO CORP. Roger Serna OF THE PHILS. CARTOONIST Ramesh Rosello OPINION COLUMNISTS DYHP RMN-CEBU NEWS DIRECTOR Cesar Albor Leodegario M. Añora Eddie Barrita NEWS DIRECTOR Ma. Jaybee Jonafe Binghay Aida Tampus PROGRAM ANCHORS BANAT NEWS Fr. Carmelo Diola Jun Arellano Salvador Diputado PROGRAM ANCHORS Ben Batucan EDITORS Elias Espinoza Buen Algono Joan Batucan Menilio Abayan Jr. Ernesto Lariosa Ruphil Bañoc Netz Canoy Brenda Batuto Efren Lonzon Arnold Bustamante Raul Boy Carin Ryan Borinaga Emmanuel Mongaya Caroline Khen Galinea Danny Cogtas Rene Borromeo Junrey Nadela Astra Zina Logarta Wellie Abok Gregg Rubio Bobby Nalzaro Futch Anthony Inso Edwin Ian Melecio Lorenzo Niñal REPORTERS Dennis Tanoc Myke Obenieta NEWS WRITER Nick Aberion Emmanuel Rabacal Marissa Abadies Joel Dellubio REPORTERS Jerry Rivera Sanden Anadia OTHER COLUMNISTS REPORTERS Gerry Auxilio Joan Saniel Josephus Quijano Decemay Padilla Elias Bolonos Camille Pateres CARTOONIST Lucio Lastima DYRF WORD BROADCASTING Romeo Limpangog Ariel Itumay Paul Lauro CORP. Brenda Batuto Josephus Quijano Rowena Capistrano PROGRAM DIRECTOR Odessa Rodriguez Fr. Roberto M. Ebisa SVD Ruel Ocat DYLA NEWS DIRECTOR CORRESPONDENTS RADIO MEDIA Kaiser Castañares Chester Abadilla NEWS DIRECTOR Raymond Abarcas DYAB ABANTE BISAYA Jhunnex Napallacan NEWS/PROGRAM ANCHORS Jojo Uqdol Manolito Languido PROGRAM ANCHORS PROGRAM ANCHORS Frank Benedicto OPINION COLUMNISTS Edgar Gutierrez Msgr. Esteban Binghay Vilma Andales Leo Lastimosa Fred Languido REPORTER Gerry Auxilio Jun Tagalog Rowena Capistrano Rene Borromeo DESK EDITORS Fr. Reynaldo Cui June Joseph Perez REPORTERS CORRESPONDENTS Antolin dela Serna Juve Villar Sanden Anadia Aram Gines Alan Domingo Le Antojado Elemelech “Nonoy” Parcon Leo Lastimosa REPORTERS Chito Aragon Roel Lagroma Lucky Malicay Rose Marie Chris Dalaguit Rene Borromeo Divine Marcial-Flores Ferdinand Mañus Dario Gil PROGRAM ANCHORS John DX Lapid Choy Torralba Angelica Fay Saniel Emerlson Calijan Rhea Mae Soco Ramon Labra SUPERBALITA [CEBU] DYMF BOMBO RADYO

EDITORS NEWS DIRECTOR Arturo Ciar DYAR SONSHINE RADIO Angelie Tajapal DYSS SUPER RADYO Emilio Migallen Jr. Rolando Morallo NEWS DIRECTOR PROGRAM ANCHORS PROGRAM DIRECTOR Michelle So Melchard Bing Eric Amaro Bobby Nalzaro Roger Vallena Crisle Adlawan Joseph Elvir Tubilan PROGRAM ANCHORS Jun Salde NEWS DIRECTOR Raymund Celocia Suzette Rafols Kitt Matos-Cortes REPORTERS William John Valencia Giovanni Pierro Malitao Jr. Flor Ballesteros Hakeem Kenneth Bustamante PROGRAM ANCHORS Philip Cerojano Aljin Abaquita Sheila Gravinez Gerry Auxilio CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12 55

Greggy Magdadaro Randolph Jainar Divine Marcial-Flores CORRESPONDENTS Manny Rabacal Chona Carreon DYRC CEBU PROGRAM ANCHOR Malou Tabar Alan Domingo Leo Lastimosa Lou-anne Mae Rondina CEO/STATION MANAGER REPORTERS Reyn Nikko Sereno Juniño Padilla REPORTERS Arnold Bustamante Carine Era Asutilla-Lapid Fe Marie Dumaboc VIDEO JOURNALISTS NEWS WRITER Joworski Alipon Chris Ligan Marlon Melgazo John Ybañez Edgar Escalante Astra Zina Logarta Renante Quiñones Edwin Ian Melecio Donna Francine Lavares Gregy Magdadaro Godfrey Rellin Aiza Layague Decemay Padilla Teodorico Solon Jr. PROGRAM HANDLERS Esmeraldo “Junrey” Nadela Cesar Albor Annie Fe Perez CAMERAMEN/EDITORS VTR EDITORS Nanding Celeste Jude Michael Torres Michael Alcoreza Noel Clyde Gabutin Oscar Pasaporte Lilith Romagera Noel Dingal Roderick Prado Arnel Bacalan Charry Coronel Jerry Españo Uma Achacoso Bruce Labastida SEGMENT PRODUCER Divine Marcial Flores CAMERAMEN/EDITORS Cleufer Lumayag Kent Pepito James Gallarde Robert Abanes Bernie Valenzona Eli Espina Joel Belocura Joevel Obiso Louie Reyes Reynaldo Bulotano Fr. Vic Ampalayo Peter Chavez RPN 9 Peter Gornez REPORTERS Renante Labrica GMA 7 - CEBU OIC/ NEWS DIRECTOR Philip Cerojano Ruel Navarro Elvieh Canet Fe Marie Dumaboc Roberto Nierra PROGRAM MANAGER Romeo Marantal Joselito Satuita Suzzane Alueta PROGRAM ANCHORS Jovelito Jayme SUPERVISING PRODUCER Lavel Berdigan CCTN Chelo Vallena Jefferson Cal TV MEDIA Bob Malazarte NEWS DIRECTOR DESK EDITORS Michael Mahusay ABS-CBN CEBU Dennes Tabar Elena Pelobello Albert Aballe REPORTERS NEWS CHIEF DESK ASSISTANT Juan Tadlip Roda Uy Rhandi Gorion PROGRAM ANCHORS Virgil Tangcawan Bobby Nalzaro DESK EDITORS PROGRAM ANCHORS Cecille Quibod-Castro As of August 15, 2017 Vilma Andales Ruphil Bañoc 56 CEBU JOURNALISM AND JOURNALISTS 12