REPORTERS MUST never reject their instincts and instead pursue it through practicing and believing in the “power of random,” a mobile journalist said.
Mobile journalist and UST journalism alumna Marymon Reyes said journalists should always accommodate their ideas because their instincts allow them to share their perspectives to the public.
“When you say the power of random, kahit sobrang nakaka-bobo ‘yung idea, basta journalist ka at alam mong it’s going to work, it will work,” she said during the forum “Beyond the Bylines: Why Journalism?” hosted by the UST Department of Journalism on Jan. 13 at the Thomas Aquinas Research Center.
Recalling her viral story about the clearing operations in Quiapo, Reyes noted the importance of “experimenting,” subject to the editorial style of a newsroom, to avoid reporting in a boring way.
The story, which later gained traction online, prompted social media users to dub Reyes the “transition queen,” referring to the video transitions she used in the field report.
She said journalists must report the story the way they “appreciate” it, adding that authentic storytelling thrives on allowing one’s perspective and creativity to shape the narrative.
“Our editors tell us that when you pitch a story, you have to show how you appreciate the story. Because if not, it’s not going to manifest who you are as a journalist, as a writer…Whatever is in your heart and in your mind during that time should come out in your writing,” Reyes said.
The mobile journalist pointed out that with the right perspective and a “nose for news,” a journalist would not run out of stories to report.
“You do not need to peek through a needle’s eye to find a story. You just need your heart to guide you, your nose for news,” she added.
‘Keep emotions in check’
Reyes also cited the need for firsthand participation to ensure the integration of the “humane aspect” of reporting. The journalist shared she once partook as a scare actor to gain firsthand experience for a feature story on the cast of a horror house.
She added that while reporting may also give journalists personal realizations, they must “compartmentalize” themselves and observe professionalism at all times.
“You will really come to that point. But remember, when you’re a journalist, you have to keep your emotions [in] check. You have to compartmentalize yourself, ” Reyes said.
“You also shouldn’t be influenced solely by your personal principles, personal interests, or emotions. You have to set that aside and be professional as much as possible.” F
