Since the radio program Ngayon Na, Bayan! which I used to co-host was unceremoniously axed in February 2006 (about two hours after President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared a state of national emergency), I have looked forward to the day when I can go back to broadcasting.

Now, the long wait is over (not just for me, I hope!). Starting June 25, Usapang Media airs on DWAD from 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. every Monday. This is a production of both DWAD and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP).

Please find below NUJP’s press release:

Using the airwaves to promote media safety and ethics

Starting June 25, a 30-minute segment about Philippine media will air over dwAD 1098 khz from 3:30 to 4 p.m. every Monday. Dubbed “Usapang Media”, NUJP personalities such as Jose Torres Jr. (GMA News.tv), Deo Bugaoisan (GMA7), Nonoy Espina (Inquirer.net), Carlos Conde (IHT) and UP Journalism Prof. Danny Arao will take turns anchoring the segment. Sonny Fernandez, NUJP vice chair and Angel Ayala of NUJP-Sorsogon are project heads.

“Usapang Media” will be a regular segment in the program, “Ano Bang Atin Kabayan” hosted by Ricky Lee. The segment will focus on issues that journalists face, ranging from killings to the measly wages that correspondents and media staff receive. It will provide tips for safe coverage and enhance awareness of ethical journalism.

The project also seeks to build a base of listeners with a critical
understanding of the nature of media. Thus, “Usapang Media” will tackle how media works, how it produces meaning and constructs reality, and how it could sometimes benefit some people but leave others out.

All episodes will be recorded and the materials made available to anyone who is interested.

Please tune in to DWAD if you have time. Thank you for reading!