Globe Media Excellence Awards (GMEA@12) Honors 15 Journalists for Grassroots Reporting and Digital Innovation

Hey there, ever wondered how technology truly transforms lives at the grassroots level? What if I told you there’s an annual celebration dedicated to the very journalists and digital storytellers who bring these inspiring narratives to light? Well, get ready to be amazed because the 12th Globe Media Excellence Awards (GMEA@12) recently wrapped up, and it was nothing short of a spectacular tribute to the power of community-focused reporting and digital innovation across the Philippines!

This prestigious event, orchestrated by telecommunications giant Globe Telecom, didn’t just hand out trophies. Oh no, it recognized a remarkable group of 15 journalists and digital content creators whose compelling work amplified the most pressing grassroots issues. Their stories vividly illustrated how modern technology and localized initiatives are shaping the everyday realities within diverse communities throughout the archipelago. It’s truly about connecting the dots, isn’t it?

#DigitallyForward: Empowering Every Barangay, One Story at a Time

The theme for GMEA@12, “#DigitallyForward: One Barangay at a Time,” wasn’t just a catchy phrase; it was a powerful mantra. It underscored the absolutely vital role that regional media plays in democratizing access to technology, fostering sustainable livelihoods, and ultimately, contributing to the broader tapestry of national development. Think of it like a digital lifeline, extending from major cities right into the heart of every small village. Globe, ever committed to its vision, took this opportunity to boldly reaffirm its dedication to digital inclusion and sustainability, promising to bridge the digital divide for everyone.

Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, beautifully articulated the essence of the awards. “We honor journalists and creators who capture how digital tools open doors for families, workers, and communities,” she stated, her words resonating with the spirit of the event. She added, “The rapid move into digital spaces shows how ready Filipinos are to embrace change. Through GMEA@12, we reaffirm our commitment to bringing technology closer to every home so people can pursue new paths and strengthen the bonds that drive progress.” Isn’t that just a testament to the transformative power of information and connectivity?

Celebrating the Visionaries: A Look at the GMEA@12 Winners

The awards celebrated reporting and storytelling that masterfully showcased how digital tools are empowering families, helping businesses flourish, and enabling communities to actively participate in the grand journey of nation-building. Let’s shine a light on some of these incredible individuals:

• Radio News Report of the Year: Imagine the impact of a well-told radio story!John Paul Hervas of Radyo Pilipinas Iloilo bagged first place for his insightful report on the Department of Trade and Industry’s invaluable assistance to online businesses run by Guimaras MSMEs. Coming in second, Rowena Capistrano of DYRF 1215 Cebu impressed with her deep dive into barangay service delivery, while Sheila Gravinez of DYMR Radyo Pilipinas Cebu secured third for highlighting farmers brilliantly adapting to digital selling. Talk about local heroes!
• TV News Report of the Year: Bringing stories to life right on your screen.A true standout, Jaira Mae Mondez-Alis of PTV Davao clinched both first and second place! Her winning features explored a DICT livelihood beneficiary’s success story and Davao City’s innovative aerial patrol efforts. Third place went to Queenie Grace Joligon of MyTV Cebu for her captivating coverage of a truly inventive creation born from waste materials. Now, that’s what we call resourceful!
• Online News Report of the Year: The digital frontier of news.Morexette Marie Erram of CDN Digital was a double threat, earning first and third place for her impactful reports on Cebu City’s persistent flooding concerns. Jonnavie Villa of The Freeman earned a well-deserved second for her poignant story on teacher migration. These online narratives often reach us first, don’t they?
• Photo of the Year: A picture speaks a thousand words, especially these!Alan Tangcawan of MyTV Cebu masterfully captured both first and second place with his powerful images depicting the devastating aftermath of floods and the relentless impact of monsoons. In third, Ralph Lawrence Llemit of SunStar Davao presented a heartbreaking yet beautiful portrait of a barefoot father and daughter bravely navigating through rain and flood. These photos etch themselves into our minds.
• Best Blog Post: Sharing insights and sparking conversations.Blogging powerhouse Mars Mosqueda Jr. of BusinessNewsPH (Cebu) secured both first place for his piece on revolutionizing sari-sari store operations through digitalization, and second for featuring ingenious solar-powered water access. Cebu-based blogger Marjorie Maano of Dakilanglaagan rounded out the top three with her insightful take on Piso WiFi usage. Aren’t blogs just fantastic for diving deep into specific topics?
• Best Social Media Video: Engaging narratives that go viral for good.Annie Fe Perez-Gallardo of ABS-CBN News truly shone, capturing first place for her story on animal population control in Cebu City and third for an impactful video on vital mangrove protection. Joanne Clarisse Espinosa of MyTV Cebu earned second place for documenting a market vendor’s incredible invention: fuel from waste! It’s amazing how social media can bring these stories to a wider audience.

Special Recognitions: The Pillars of Philippine Journalism

Beyond the categories focused on individual reports, GMEA@12 also honored the guiding forces behind the news:

• The coveted Newsmaker of the Year award was proudly bestowed upon Mildred Galarpe, the brilliant Editor-in-Chief of SunStar Publishing Inc. in Cebu.
• And the prestigious Editor of the Year honor went to Cristina Alivio of SunStar Davao, a true testament to her leadership and dedication.

But wait, there’s more! The Globe of Good Story of the Year was fittingly awarded to Queenie Grace Joligon of MyTV Cebu for her inspiring piece, “Paglaum Gikan Sa Basura: Ang Imbensyon ni Benito.” This feature chronicled Benito Samson’s ingenious invention of diesel from plastic – a true game-changer! And guess what? Samson’s group, Carbonhanong Alyansa, was also deservingly named the Featured Community, receiving a generous ₱20,000 grant to further their incredible work. What an inspiring testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship!

More Than Just Trophies: Sustainable Recognition

What did these incredible individuals take home, you ask? Well, first and second-place winners received not just well-deserved cash prizes, but also a unique UNOSINOTRA GMEA@12 trophy. These aren’t just any trophies; they’re handcrafted from innovative materials like casted sawdust composites, organic corn-based filament, and biodegradable polymer sourced from renewable corn starch. Now, that’s what we call walking the talk on sustainability! Third-place awardees were also celebrated with cash prizes and well-earned certificates.

Truly, GMEA@12 isn’t just an awards ceremony; it’s a vibrant reflection of Globe’s deeply ingrained sustainability pillars: Digital Enablement and Inclusion, Societal Well-being, and Climate Action. Every recognized story, in its own powerful way, championed technology access, fostered community development, and bolstered environmental resilience. It reminds us that impactful journalism isn’t just about reporting; it’s about building a better future.

Keep the Inspiration Going!

Curious to dive deeper into how Filipino journalists and creators are making a tangible, positive impact nationwide? We certainly are! You can explore more inspiring stories and keep up with these community champions by visiting GoodNewsPilipinas.com. It’s a treasure trove of positive news you won’t want to miss!