What does it really take to be a journalist?

Each pen, camera, and microphone holds the stories of a profession built on sacrifice and dedication.

The International Journalists’ Day, annually observed on November 19, celebrates the lives of brave individuals who put their lives on the line to report the truth. Journalists serve as watchdogs for the public, airing out stories that concern multifaceted aspects of society. 

But beyond the romanticized expectations of standing in front of cameras and interviewing prominent stars, journalists bear the burden of fulfilling the duties that come with their demanding careers.

The traditional 9-to-5 working schedule is a myth to journalists who are on the clock 24/7, ready to cover the latest controversy even if it takes place at the crack of dawn. Ringing alarms harmonize with the dripping sound of coffee machines as they run on caffeiene and adrenaline to meet tight deadlines, ensuring that no news goes unreported.

Even when the heavens are roaring and bullets are flying left and right, journalists erase fear from their vocabularies as they voice out the truth even during the strongest typhoons or the most terrifying conflicts.

Unfortunately, despite the noble nature of being beacons of truth, being a journalist means trekking through life with one foot in the grave.

According to Reporters Without Borders, the Philippines remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists; 147 have been killed on the job since 1986. The rampant rise of red-tagging continues to paint the field of journalism with the prejudicial colors of terrorism and subversiveness, molding a community of collective hostility towards the societal beacons of truth.

How can people choose to pursue journalism when it is practically synonymous with death?

Journalism is a profession built on sacrifice, suited only for the thick-skinned who can fearlessly look at death in the eye. Its challenging demands and pressuring requirements are music to the ears of those who are passionate about broadcasting the truth no matter what it asks for in exchange. 

Journalists require dedication. To be a journalist is to uphold the values and standards of journalistic storytelling at all times, amplifying calls for accountability in times of injustices with utmost excellence. Easy is thrown out the window, for the journalistic path requires unmatched diligence and commitment to raise discourse on relevant issues that affect society.

Above all, the very core of journalism stems from the unwavering passion of serving the community. Amid vicious threats of harassment and death, journalists continue to pursue their professions as they are fueled by their deep-rooted belief in the irreplaceable role of the truth in today’s time. 

As we live in the era of digitalization, where misinformation rapidly spreads with one click, journalists brush off the multifarious struggles and risks they face for they are outweighed by the crucial role they play in protecting truth and integrity in today’s society.

While the International Journalists’ Day comes once a year, journalism proves itself to be a noble profession every day. 

Amid countless challenges, truth-tellers persevere. Fueled by  our unchallenged passion for the truth, we write not just for the headlines, but for the country.