In the forefront of radio commentary

MANILA, Philippines - Remember when AM radio was both the people’s news and social media?

The country seems to have returned to that golden era of AM radio during the past few weeks as tragedy and upheavals hit some parts of the world. And Noli “Kabayan” de Castro is in the forefront of the resurgence.

Some of the recent unforgettable moments on Kabayan’s radio show were his interviews with the brother of a Filipina drug mule and with the mother of a Filipina nurse trapped in the rubble in New Zealand; and the overseas call of OFWs in Libya.

The interviews reminded everyone that AM radio is a listener’s most important link to others and to the world.

A few weeks ago, we chanced upon Kabayan and we thought we would have the chance to get some inside information from him regarding controversies hounding the political scene. We knew that his three years in the Senate and six years as vice president gave him the insider’s view of the issues.

He responded with a smile. Kabayan has avoided engaging in speculations. This is part of the credibility that has been the foundation of his staying power.

Does he miss the political life?

“If there’s something I don’t miss, that would be politics,” he answers.

Kabayan is happy to be back in his weekday broadcasting chores, savoring unprecedented success of his return to both radio and TV news casting.