How Ces, Julius and Karen keep viewers up

MANILA, Philippines - ABS-CBN’s multi-awarded news program Bandila won Best Newscast while anchor Ces Oreña Drilon took home the prestigious Ka Doroy Valencia Broadcaster of the Year trophy at the 19th KBP Golden Dove Awards last Thursday (Nov 25) in Tagaytay City.

Bandila and Drilon’s triumphs followed the successful debut of the program’s new format last Nov. 22. With more and more viewers getting hooked to its fast-paced and interactive format, the new Bandila is all set to change the landscape of late night newscasts.

Headlined by the triumvirate of acclaimed journalists Drilon, Julius Babao, and Karen Davila, the new Bandila not only offers comprehensive reports on the day’s biggest news but also allows viewers to immediately react on news reports.

Drilon, Babao, and Davila can be seen during the newscast using their own tablet and laptop computers to read comments that viewers send in through social networking and micro-blogging sites.

Bandila executive producer Paul Henson said this is ABS-CBN’s way to empower Filipinos to take part in issues that matter to them. Henson added, just like the award-winning Bayan Mo, iPatrol Mo: Ako ang Simula citizen journalism campaign, Bandila is a platform where ordinary citizens can be heard.

The four-year old newscast is currently enjoying positive reviews online, with posters commending its “revolutionary,” “hip and informative” concept, as well as its powerhouse combination of anchors.

Twitter user Jun Robles twitted last Nov. 25: “I had a venti of Starbucks coffee last nyt to keep myself awake for Bandila. I wasnt disappointed. Ur format is revolutionary!”

Even Filipinos abroad are getting into the Bandila “fever.” Twitter user joven2181 said “Bandila is the breakfast of Vancouver. I like u expressing your opinions about each news. the best trio tandem in newscast kayo.”

Viewers also raved about the rapport of the three anchors. All experienced and award-winning, each of them gets to contribute some analysis and backgrounders on the issues from time to time.

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs went home victorious from the KBP Golden Dove Awards. Henry Omaga Diaz was honored as Best TV Newscaster, Rated K was named Best magazine Program, Sports Unlimited was awarded Best TV Sports Program, Harapan Vice Presidential Debate was judged Best Special Program and Salamat Dok was hailed Best TV Public Affairs Program.