Veteran broadcaster tackles purpose of journalism in Press Freedom Week forum

Local

JOURNALISM is a vocation, not a luxury.

Veteran broadcaster Emil Sumangil reminded Cebu students of this message as he spoke about the true purpose of the profession.

He said journalism should not be mistaken as a means to sustain a lavish lifestyle. Instead, he likened it to a vocation, one that demands the same commitment and selflessness as priesthood or religious life.

“Hindi ho ito ang hanapbuhay na maghahatid sa inyo ng lifestyle gaya nung mga kontraktor na nababanggit ngayon,” he said

Sumangil delivered this reminder during the GMA Masterclass: The Cebu Press Freedom Week Special on Monday, September 22, at the University of the Philippines Cebu.

He also urged students, especially those who do not come from major universities, not to doubt their abilities.

Sumangil encouraged them to always trust their skill set, work hard, and keep their faith in God as they pursue their dreams in journalism and beyond.

The session formed part of the series of activities lined up for the 33rd Cebu Press Freedom Week, a tradition that brings together journalists, students, and media advocates to reflect on press freedom and the role of responsible reporting in a democratic society.

The 24 Oras anchor and senior news producer also used the platform to share his personal journey in journalism.

From starting out as a crime beat reporter to eventually anchoring primetime newscasts, Sumangil stressed that perseverance and integrity remain the cornerstones of the profession.

His rise in the industry, he noted, was built not on shortcuts or privilege, but on years of persistence and a commitment to truth.

Beyond career milestones, Sumangil also pointed to the demands of investigative work. He recalled his reporting on the case of the missing sabungeros, a story that has captured national attention.

While the country is now focusing on issues of flood control and the ongoing rallies nationwide, Sumangil said he continues to keep an eye on any developments related to the case.

He stressed that the story should not be neglected so that the public will not forget it.

Other forums will also take place throughout the week. On Tuesday, MyTV Cebu will host a forum from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the University of San Jose-Recoletos.

The event will tackle timely issues under the theme “Data Ethics in the Digital Newsroom.” Among the speakers are Atty. Cirille Dumalos, Attorney IV of the Commission on Human Rights, who will discuss “Humane and Ethical Crime Reporting in the Digital Age.”

Atty. King Perez, partner at Oriño, Perez and Anora Law Offices and a law professor, will talk about “Data Privacy and Legal Boundaries in the Digital Newsroom.”

Meanwhile, PLT Joshua V. Cruz, assistant team leader of the Cebu PCRT and officer-in-charge of the Digital Forensic Section of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Office 7, will share insights on “Cybercrime and Cyberlibel: Digital Risks and Legal Boundaries in Journalism.”(MyTVCebu)