Local media remembers Ajero as pillar of Davao press

Edge Davao Publisher and EIC Antonio M. Ajero
Edge Davao Publisher and EIC Antonio M. Ajero

THE media industry in Davao City mourns the passing of veteran journalist Antonio M. Ajero on Sunday morning, July 17.

Edge Davao confirmed the passing of its publisher and editor-in-chief (EIC) through a Facebook post, saying that Ajero passed away peacefully in his sleep the early morning after a lingering illness.

Details of his wake and interment will be announced by his family.

Ajero, who was called "AMA" by his colleagues, also served as publisher and editor-in-chief of SunStar Davao from 1995 to 2002 and as the newspaper’s publisher from 2002 until his retirement in 2008.

In a statement, SunStar Davao extended its condolences to the late journalist.

"He will be remembered as a pillar of the Davao media industry and among the leading figures in the local print industry. AMA has inspired many young journalists throughout his time in the media," SunStar Davao said.

Ruth Palo, president of the AFP-PNP Southern Mindanao Press Corps, told SunStar Davao in an online message that the late journalist "has imparted to the journalistic practice" in the city, which will be honored and remembered.

"Being the enabling and enriching mentor that he is, every encounter I had with him was a growth point. He always has his ways of encouraging me to be excellent and disciplined in the work that I do," Palo said.

The Press Corps also extended its condolences to the family.

Mindanao Times Managing Editor Carmelito Francisco recalled his memory with the Ajero, also his fellow host in the Habi at Kape Press Conference every Wednesday before the Covid-19 pandemic halted it temporarily.

Francisco said their friendship remained firm even after he left SunStar.

"Daghan mi og (We have a lot of) memories together. I lost count. But the most that stood out was we just talked about life especially during my early years sa media under him. We would go someplace to eat our breakfast. Our relationship never changed even when I left Sunstar," he told SunStar Davao.

Francisco said he was able to communicate with Ajero three weeks before his passing. He added that he was already getting weak and that he could no longer respond to his messages online.

Roy Geonzon, station manager of 819 AM DXUM, said the local media industry lost an "icon" and "mentor".

"Nong (Ninong) Tony contributed a lot not only in the media industry but also in politics, governance, business and in the community by being an uncompromising but objective journalist. We thanked him for his unselfish and remarkable contribution," Geonzon said.

Ajero also became the station's prominent radio personality.

Frances Mae Macapagat, Head of the Policy and Communication Research Division - Philippine Information Agency Central Office, lauded his professionalism and hard work at his age.

"I will miss the brilliant questions you send me during virtual pressers and press conferences. I will miss the brilliant suggestions you shared for the agency I work in could be more effective and felt by the people," Macapagat said.

Former Davao City Councilor Peter Laviña also remembered the late journalist's contribution to the Rotary Club and Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), where he was a former board of trustee.

Philippine Press Institute executive director Ariel Sebellino, in a Facebook post, remembered Ajeros's contribution to community journalism.

"The Philippine Press Institute condoles with the Ajero family for the passing of one of the pillars in community journalism 'tito' Antonio Ajero," Sebellino said.

"We thank you for your valuable and outstanding contribution to promoting excellence in community journalism and advancing the welfare of community journalists. Salute!," he added. RGL

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