this seems to be late, but i think this is something that Cebuanos must always be proud of.
Early mornings and Leo
Kara Mae Muga Noveda corners Mr. Arangkada and finds out why, death threats notwithstanding, the award-winning journalist still walks his way to work.
If his salt-and-pepper hair gave way to his seniority, Leo Lastimosa is a mere 21 years old, as a media man that is.
And it is this power suit of a veteran broadcast journalist that he wears with ease—the uncompromising Mr. Arangkada in the mornings of ABS-CBN radio, DYAB and the primetime news anchor of TV Patrol Central Visayas (CMMA 2005 Best TV News Program) later in the evenings. Besides being a prominent on-air presence, Leo also continues to manage the DYAB radio news department.
Recently, Leo made news for getting this year’s KBP Golden Dove for Best TV Newscaster, historically the first for a Cebuano, rising above his counterparts in the capital.
Unfazed by the attention, Leo remains true to his simple, unglamorous lifestyle that seems austere for his status. To begin his daily routine, he still walks from his home to the ABS-CBN studio early in the mornings—with or without death threats and other occupational hazards.
But don’t expect him to rest on his laurels. Running on tight (as usual) schedule, Leo takes a rare breather for this interview.
How do you feel about the award?
I’m actually humbled by this award. The news anchor’s job is glamorized. TV Patrol Central Visayas owes much of its success to those who labored in the background, the field reporters, cameramen, editors and many other dedicated people.
How do you sustain your energy in this career?
I love my job. If you don’t, then lisod i-bangon sayo sa buntag.
People in the workplace say you just walk from your house to the office, why this simplicity?
I wake up at three in the morning, then I walk to the studio. My simple lifestyle is a self-imposed discipline. I’m old and walking is my only exercise and the only time of the day when I can think clearly. Ig-lakaw nako, I think: unsa ako topic today, kinsa kaha ako banatan…
In the face of threats, do you change this routine?
Not really. Sometimes, I walk on the other side of the road or walk later than usual. I don’t have permanent adversaries. I don’t linger on a single issue or personality. I also make sure that I make issue-based comments, nothing personal. It’s part of my job.
What are the perks of the job, let-downs?
Perks include having influential friends on whom I can count on for public service projects. I’m glad that my status helps people in need. The downside of this hectic job is not having time to think (as much as I want to).
Media professionals may find themselves in sticky situations, what’s a journalist’s best protection?
Basically, for him or herself—a journalist’s determination to learn the ropes, mastery of his/her craft and knowledge of one’s unique skills.
You mentioned you’re getting old, what’s your fancy for the future?
Di ko ganahan nga mag-kanga-kanga sa microphone. I want to retire in the best form and I see myself with Yahoo (or the internet) in the future. I hope to find the time to learn more about computers.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb...s.and.leo.html
Leo Lastimosa - 2005 KBP Golden Dove Awards Best TV Newscaster
pareho ra na sila ni bobby nalzaro..
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