Dreams interrupted, but not lost

On television, professional reporters appear polished—hair neatly combed, uniforms crisp, voices steady, delivering the news from a calm studio or the edge of a storm with practiced ease. Cameras, lights, and scripts surround them, giving the illusion that everything is under control.

But that morning, in Albay and in the bustling market of Divisoria, two ordinary men faced the camera unexpectedly. Mark Andrew “Mac” Ortiz, a TV5 cameraman usually behind the lens, stood in the storm to deliver a live report, soaked and tense yet composed. Christian Tee, a nineteen-year-old porter carrying crates in the market, spoke into a microphone for ABS-CBN’s Patrol ng Pilipino, his voice clear amid the noise and chaos. Neither looked like a reporter, yet both became one, if only for a moment.

Stepping into the field

Mac Ortiz had never intended to be the face of a broadcast. On that typhoon morning, his role was to film, not speak. Yet when the reporting team was short-staffed and the storm intensified, he had no choice but to step in front of the camera. Soaked and tense, he held his phone for the latest updates and delivered them with composure, connecting with viewers despite the chaos around him.

On TikTok, viewers praised his calm and natural performance. One comment noted, “The way he’s not pressured by his co-workers and even encouraged to be natural 🥺🥺🥺. ANG KYUTTTT,” while another wrote that the anchor had helped him stay relaxed by likening the broadcast to a casual conversation, saying it felt like they were just having a small “inuman.”

In Divisoria, Christian Tee’s engagement with the camera was equally unexpected. As a “boy buhat,” he spent his days carrying heavy crates, weaving through the crowded market. When an ABS-CBN crew arrived, curiosity drove him to approach them, ask questions, and eventually try reporting into their microphone. Despite the noise and distraction, he spoke confidently, commanding attention in an environment completely different from a studio.

Both men’s experiences illustrate that reporting is often more about seizing opportunity than following protocol. Stepping into the field, even unprepared, revealed hidden talent and determination that formal titles might have overlooked. Their courage in taking the first step set the stage for everything that followed in the reporting process.

Preparation under pressure

For Mac, preparation in that moment was improvised but essential. Holding his phone, he read updates aloud while keeping his composure, relying on years of behind-the-camera experience to guide him. The encouragement at the news center helped him stay steady, and viewers online responded warmly.

A TikTok comment highlighted how Mac delivered news naturally without pressure, noting, “Good job Sir Mac 😅 Kakatuwa ka. Di namin kailangan ng pormal reporting, kailangan lang namin ng balita ng update and you gave that to us. Napangiti mo kami despite sa takot dahil sa bagyo na to.”

Christian, meanwhile, drew on curiosity and observation to prepare. Though he had never reported before, he quickly assessed the chaotic market environment and adapted to its challenges. Holding the microphone, he maintained clarity and confidence, finding his rhythm as he spoke.

In a TikTok video with Jessie Cruzat, Christian shared, “Napakasarap sa feeling na nakikita mo sa sarili mo sa social media na unti-unti mong nakakamit ‘yung pangarap mo na dati inaasam mo lang,” reflecting on the thrill of achieving what once seemed distant.

Preparation under pressure, as both men demonstrated, is not just technical but also mental. It involves confidence, adaptability, and the ability to stay focused under unexpected circumstances. Their experiences highlight that preparation can happen anywhere—not only in classrooms or studios but also in the midst of storms and crowded markets.

Field engagement and delivery

Delivery is where preparation meets action, and both Mac and Christian excelled in connecting with their audiences. Mac’s live broadcast communicated essential information clearly, despite the typhoon.

Christian faced a different challenge in engaging a crowded and noisy market. Despite this, he delivered his report confidently, capturing the attention of both the crew and viewers. TikTok commenters recognized his potential, writing that there are many talented people who simply lack opportunities, and expressing hope that he might one day join a major network, showing how impactful a clear, confident delivery can be in gaining recognition.

This stage of reporting underscores the interactive nature of journalism. Both Mac and Christian had to respond to immediate conditions, relying on observation, instinct, and audience feedback. Their moments on camera demonstrated that delivery is not just about what you say, but how you engage the people watching.

Reflection and impact

Reflection is the final stage of reporting, and both men experienced its significance. Mac returned to his usual role behind the camera but gained confidence in his ability to step forward when circumstances demanded it. His spontaneous reporting illustrated that professional growth often occurs in moments outside one’s comfort zone.

Christian continues to do his work as a porter. His reflection on social media, where he said seeing himself achieve dreams that were once distant is “napakasarap sa feeling,” shows the personal and professional impact of reporting opportunities.

Together, their experiences show that reporting is a process encompassing preparation, engagement, delivery, and reflection. Each step contributed to moments where ordinary individuals revealed extraordinary potential, reminding audiences that talent and ambition can thrive under the right circumstances.

Paused, not lost

Whether standing in a storm or navigating a busy market, Mac Ortiz and Christian Tee revealed that dreams may be interrupted, but they are not lost. Reporting is more than a job; it is a process of courage, adaptability, and opportunity.

Their stories remind us that even when life pauses ambition, talent and determination can shine when the moment arrives.