Facing the news headstrong

MANILA, Philippines - Usualy, the course that we take in college guides us to our career life. But for Ed Amoroso who preferred to follow his discovered passion for journalism rather than the path laid out for him by his BSC in accountancy, this wasn’t the case. Fresh out of college, he was looking for an accounting position; however the late STAR president, Arturo Borjal assigned him to report to the editorial department. Even though Amoroso had no clue on what to do at first, he soon learned how to manage.. He started writing news stories for the tabloid Pilipino Star Ngayon, did some photography for the newspaper and handled other editorial tasks. It was during this time that he developed an interest for writing and photography. Amoroso then became a STAR correspondent in Region 4A, covering news in the CALABARZON area.

As The Philippine STAR celebrates 25 years of existence, Amoroso also celebrates his 25th year in the company. What made Amoroso very loyal to the STAR for many years is the atmosphere that the company has. “The late Arturo Borjal gave me a chance to work in the STAR and the compassion and kindness of the late STAR founder Betty Go Belmonte and Max Soliven served as very significant motivation,” Amoroso shares. “Today, Boss Miguel and Sir Isaac Belmonte are very approachable, mana sila sa mommy nila, even our bossing in editorial department, Ma’am Amy Pamintuan and Doreen Yu and other section editors, are all very approachable.”

When talking about what it’s like to be a reporter in the late ‘80s, compared to being a reporter today, Amoroso says it’s a lot easier to gather facts nowadays, and how hassle-free it is to transmit stories through modern technology. But no matter what year, there are still the same trials and frustrations when it comes to writing news pieces. Constantly looking for the wrong things that are happening in the country is somewhat disheartening for Amoroso but, according to him, “It is important to just focus on the work at hand and think positive and just accept all the circumstances.” It’s these kinds of things that has made Amoroso who he is today. He’s met people from all walks of life, and being in the media, he gets approached by people from the neighborhood, seeking for assistance, and of course he is more than willing to help.

One of the things that Amoroso likes about his job is the constant thrill and challenges that come with it. Nothing compares to being on the field and getting the exclusive details while covering a big event. A few of the unforgettable experiences that Amoroso recalls took place five years ago, when a bank robbery left 10 persons mercilessly killed in Cabuyao, Laguna; and another story from 10 years ago, when whole family was massacred and only a young girl survived the attack.

It has high and low points but whatever his job entails, Amoroso says that he’s glad to have this as his first job and he doesn’t want to move anywhere else.