Journalism award honors GMA Network's Felipe Gozon, other personalities

GMA Network Chairman and lawyer Felipe Gozon, along with journalists Jessica Soho, Raffy Tima, and Melo del Prado, were recognized for their contributions to journalism at the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) Grand Journalism Awards.

GMA Network Chairman and lawyer Felipe Gozon (center) is feted by the members of the Manila Overseas Press Club. PHOTOS FROM GMA NETWORK

Gozon received the "Lifetime Achievement Award." A corporate lawyer and broadcast executive, he has played a key role in GMA's growth as a major network. His leadership emphasizes responsible and impartial journalism, reinforcing GMA's reputation as a trusted news organization.

(From left) Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angela Javier-Cruz, Melo del Prado, Gozon, Jessica Soho, Raffy Tima and Mariz Umali

"This recognition is very important and meaningful to me because, one, this is only the second time in 80 years of its existence that the MOPC is giving these awards. Number two, the MOPC as the first and oldest press club in the Philippines, enjoys an importance and reputation second to none among the press clubs in the country. And last, the 12 awarded tonight, four of whom are from GMA Network are the best among the best, myself excluded, in the field of journalism in the Philippines today," Gozon said in his speech.

Journalist of the Year Jessica Soho

Soho, in turn, was recognized as "Journalist of the Year." With a career spanning decades, she is known for her integrity and compelling storytelling. As the country's most-awarded broadcast journalist, Soho holds the distinction of winning the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award in 1999 and 2014, and as the first Filipino to be nominated and to have won in the New York Festivals TV and Film Awards. She currently hosts "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho," the top TV program of 2024.

TV Reporter of the Year Raffy Tima

Tima received the "TV Reporter of the Year" award. A seasoned journalist, Tima is one of the first to use drone and mobile journalism in the country and has helped revolutionize how stories are captured and told, particularly in conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas. Tima was a one-man team on the ground covering the Palestine side from Egypt at the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in 2023. He co-anchors the longest-running noontime newscast on Philippine Free TV, "Balitanghali."

Radio Broadcaster of the Year Melo del Prado

Del Prado was named "Radio Broadcaster of the Year." With over 30 years in radio journalism, he anchors "Melo del Prado sa Super Radyo" and co-anchors "Super Balita sa Umaga, Nationwide" on Super Radyo DZBB 594 kHz and Dobol B TV sa GTV.

The MOPC Grand Journalism Awards recognize excellence, achievements, and dedication to the journalism profession. Established in 1945, the MOPC is the oldest press club in Asia.