As news editor, Ms. Ging was ‘sharp, kind, funny’

I’LL never forget the bounce in your step. In this profession where deadlines have deadlines, where everything is fast-paced, where we rush to interview after interview, we work hard to get everything right, type every detail into stories, and where stories do not always have a happy ending and often leave you a little depressed and jaded, you never ceased to smile.

There was always a beautiful happy radiance around you that was incredibly infectious, especially on days where one crawled into the newsroom tired and beaten.

There was an upbeat tempo around you. I was always in awe of that. As a fresh reporter, I looked up to you for your incredible spirit, your work ethic, and for nurturing budding reporters like myself. On days when I was lost, I sought you and was most comfortable asking for help, guidance, and advice – and a few chuckles in between.

Encouragement

Over the course of years I had the wonderful opportunity of working with you, I knew I wanted to be an editor just like you. Sharp, kind, mindful, funny, and incredibly passionate.

When you told me you liked my stories, I felt giddy. I remember laughing, a bit ashamed but hungry for validation. I vividly remember you literally bouncing toward my tiny desk, peering over my clunky monitor and waving the day’s paper at me. “Nice kaayo imong story, Beth,” you’d say.

During my second month as a reporter, I got assigned to follow the MV Princess of the Stars sinking. I spent a month following the story, interviewing survivors, family members of missing passengers, and members of Interpol, Sulpicio, the NBI, and national agencies.

I spent days running around the morgue and action center working on daily stories. It was one of those story assignments that were intense and emotionally taxing (but a goldmine for growth and experience) and I remember coming to the newsroom often looking tired and smelling literally like death.

Expectations

Every time I’d come in at night, you’d bounce over and check on me.

“Okay pa ka, Beth?” you’d ask. After making sure I was fine, you’d grin and nod. “Pahuway sa. ‘Nya, imong balita nya ha? (Get some rest, and then write your story, OK?)” And with a laugh and pat, you’d go back to your own desk, hard at work but with a watchful eye still on me.

You were nothing but motivating. Stern when you needed to be, and motivational and thoughtful. You inspired me to work hard and produce stories up to your expectations. You inspired me to be a better writer.

Even after I left the newsroom, you were a warm presence in my life. When we’d meet during my visits at the newsroom or at events, you’d come over, still with a bounce in your step, and offer a quick side hug before rushing off to wherever work took you. “Hi, Pia Wurtzbach,” you’d jokingly call me, with a pinch and hug.

I am eternally thankful for your thoughtfulness and kindness. I am a better writer because of you. I will miss you terribly – visiting the newsroom will not be the same.

But this is not goodbye – I know you’re up there keeping a watchful eye on us. We will never forget you, your passion, and infectious smile. Tight hugs, Ms. Ging.

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