THE way people consume news has changed with the advancement of technology and digitization. While there are still people who prefer newspapers or news articles written in print, there are many who prefer the social media nowadays.
This has changed conventional journalism, and yes, it also changed the life of the people behind the current news we are reading everyday.
One of the trusted news outlets in Davao City is SunStar Davao and its tabloid SunStar Superbalita Davao which has been in the industry since the 90s. The rise of social media slowly changed its operation, it became even more fast-paced, and have strengthened digital journalism to deliver more timely and truthful news that the community needs. Thus, reporters in these news outlets have been trained to write for print and online, discern stories worth sharing in the social media, and are exposed with media convergence. Indeed, producing content on a daily basis in this time of fast-paced world is not easy.
Here's what the life of a reporter is like straight from the reporters of SunStar Davao and SunStar SuperBalita:
Juliet Revita, defense and general beat reporter
"It has been more than three years and four months since I became part of SunStar Davao. It is still surreal being part of the number one community newspaper in Davao City.
Before, my only goal was to see my name on the paper without knowing that there is an underlying responsibility once your name has been placed below the title of the story. It’s like a signature to mark that what was written are all true and verified. Whatever may be the outcome of the story, I have to stand up for it.
From the mere purpose of seeing my name has evolved into something deeper and meaningful. It has become a crusade of bringing forward the information that people need to know. I was able to push my advocacy making the people take an informed decision and engage them in a healthy discussion about pressing issues.
Like any other profession, being a reporter is not an easy job. It takes passion, determination, and compassion to the marginalized to deliver better stories. What I like about the profession is the opportunity to learn new things daily and able to talk to different people from all walks of life."
Ralph Laurence Llemit, governance and general beat reporter
"My stint as a city reporter is centralized on the happenings around the Davao City government, particularly on its programs, activities, and other matters under the jurisdiction of the local government.
I also follow the happenings under the leadership of Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and her subordinates. I also follow track the happenings inside the City Council from the proposed and approved ordinances and resolutions, and discussions on matters that affect improve the lives of their respective constituent.
Also, I also look into social issues and viral topics within the city premises that need immediate action. For months since I had my stint as city reporter for Sunstar, I had already relayed down various problems to concerened agencies. It is fulfilling to be of service in helping them bridge to the rightful line of agencies."
Lyka Amethyst H. Casamayor, business beat reporter
"When I started writing business stories, I learned to be more careful on what I write since the accuracy of figures and data are very important for the readers. I learned to go beyond what was said through research and verifications from the right people. I write three stories a day, sometimes more.
I usually go to press conferences and forums where government officials, businesspeople, and other stakeholders are invited to get the latest update. However, in this beat, I realized how important it is to also visit the public market to monitor the prices of fruits and vegetables. These stories may be simple but it means a lot to both farmers and consumers.
Business news is not easy, I can say it is more complex than I thought. Yet, having the experience to write about these kinds of stories contributed to my growth in my chosen career."
Jeepy Compio, SunStar Superbalita reporter
"Covering for a Cebuano-tabloid Sun.Star SuperBalita can be one of the most challenging, but rewarding. It's basically covering the police, making sure the biggest breaking news stories can land on its news pages. And it is not easy. Covering the crime beat is demanding and often stressful, and as a reporter it takes time, patience and skill to get the authorities to trust you enough to give you information."