THE year 2009 has brought drama and achievement in the lives of journalists too. This is the year when media personalities—for their part—cement their evolution and unity as they are becoming prominent, making themselves part of the news and information they communicate.
But accustomed to such good (or bad) moments or not, several of them contend 2009 was such an awful year, with all the problems besetting the industry as well as their personal lives.
Apparently, the ones who replied to this paper’s text survey all together agree, given their answers and their tone for this year’s wishes was probably to set a new mood for 2010 when they see a new bailout.
And while it seems to go beyond their desperation and awareness of their immense role as a committed partner in the community, their retrospection of next year’s general elections is first on their list of wishes.
Appreciating what the automated election has brought in terms of modernizing the country’s electoral process, it is sad to know that still several, if not, many of the provincial journalists has to find time to learn the automated election system (AES).
“Peaceful polls,” was RMN-DxDR Ramil Bangues’ text message to this paper when asked of his wish for 2010. Charnyl Albarracin of the Pagadian Express seconded.
“Peaceful, orderly elections,” was DxOC-AM reporter Reynaldo Rosal’s absolute reply.
“Peaceful, clean elections in May,” Ping Deliverio, editor of the Sibugay Express, makes another inclusive answer.
“Maturity among politicians to stop killing media people,” Vic del Pilar of Mindanao Balita Local and Frontline Mindanao Online recommended the most suitable setting.
“Good health and no more media attack,” said Neptalie Batolenio of Malindang Herald, leading the pack of mediamen who wanted to grasp favorable vigor and wellbeing.
“More blessings, good health and success,” replied Jong Cadion of Mindanao Balita Local and Frontline Mindanao Online.
“Maintain a happy family,” also said Marive Jongco of DxBZ-Radyo Bagting, waxing her maternal instincts.
“Financial stability and salary increase,” this one from Lea Agonoy of Ummah Fi Salam while Divina Suson of RMN-DxIC wished for a car and another raise in her salary.
For Elmer Maghanoy of RMN-DxPR, he wants “continued blessings and guidance in relaying the truth and God’s protection in times of trouble.”
John Mark Cocos of DxWO-FM may sound funny when he wished for a “sports car and to become the president of ABS-CBN,” but he later set it right with the words “Good relations with other mediamen.”
Reflecting on what worked in 2009, what didn’t, what media loved and hated and what they could have done better, Wendell Talibong of CBCP News and DxDD-AM told this paper: “Daghang patay ug katalagman. Naghari ang mga tikasan sa gobyerno ug midaghan ang nag-antos sa kalisod.”
Agonoy butted in, “Maguindanao massacre, a president who is not willing to retire, typhoons, volcano eruption, climate change, MILF and global financial crisis.’
“Worst year, full of disasters and tribulations—a sign that Jesus is coming,” quips Mark Laride of DA-RAFID.
For Ryan Rosauro of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, it is because of the upcoming political exercise in May 2010 that the social atmosphere is ripe for intrigues, mudslinging and double talk.
“The year 2008 is better than 2009 as the latter is marred by bloody events and calamities. People wanted better life in 2008 after the elections but their hopes dimmed when politicians reneged on their promises,” said Ellen Ajijul of MIT-RTVN.
“These trials and challenges will be an eye opener to the people and will reflect in their decision come 2010,” explains Cadion.
Albarracin, on the other hand, observed that there was little upliftment of economic stability in the country from the recession and only boxer Manny Pacquiao got richer and more famous.
“The year was full of hardships and success. Nevertheless, its time nga magpasalamat kita sa kahitas-an sa mga kaayuhan nga gihatag ug sugaton nato ang bag-ong tuig nga puno sa paglaum,” ended Maghanoy.
Well said, the next step now is to see media’s goals and wishes come true in the upcoming year. Inevitably, the future is moving in that direction.
REPORT BY MICHAEL MEDINA