Thursday, September 19, 2013

Sunstar Davao Experience

One of my best memories here in Davao City was being able to work for Sunstar Davao, a leading local newspaper. Although I had only a one-year (1997-1998) stint in the paper, it was a very rewarding and enriching experience for me.

Sunstar Davao gave me my first job as a new resident here in the city. I was fortunate to have been hired as a desk editor without having to wait for long after my interview and exam courtesy of Sir Tony Ajero.

While I already had a previous experience in the media industry as a broadcast journalist (back in Iloilo City), I admit I had to learn some more considering it was my first exposure to the print media. Thankfully, Sir Tony, Ik-Ik (Stella Estremera who was managing editor that time), fellow editor Maricar and the other staff including the reporters were very helpful.

Working for Sunstar also helped improve my computer skills. Back in my hometown, we only used the typewriter in writing and editing our reports so I was still groping while using the computer keyboard to do my editing job. Funny it may seem but I had to remind myself to type slowly on the keyboard as I was used to pounding my fingers while using the traditional typewriter.

This year marks the 18th anniversary of Sunstar. It's been more than 15 years since I was there and I realized this only recently when I got invited by writer Marianne to write a testimonial about my stint in the leading local paper. I'm posting here the Sunstar page where past editors and writers shared their unforgettable experience.