Dr. Raymundo Lo named "Best Columnist" in Makatao Awards for Media Excellence
(Arnold Quizol)
Dr. Raymundo W. Lo, an opinion columnist of the Manila Bulletin (MB), was cited as "Best Columnist" at the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) 11th Makatao Awards for Media Excellence. The award ceremony was held on Aug. 30, at a hotel in Pasay City.
During the same awarding ceremony, Dr. Lo participated in a panel discussion on "Digital Media: The New Frontier of Mass Media" with other awardees –Arnold Clavio, Gretchen Ho, and Atom Araullo.
Lo's discussion centered on the "good, the bad, and the ugly" aspects of digital media. He emphasized that digital media facilitates real-time global connections among the public, proving advantageous for work and businesses.

MEDIA SUMMIT on "Digital media: The new frontier for mass media" was the topic discussed in the forum by (from left) Arnold Clavio, Gretchen Ho, Atom Araullo, and Dr. Raymundo W. Lo at the 11th PMAP Makatao awards and media summit. (Arnold Quizol)
However, Dr. Lo also highlighted the downsides of social media. He noted that the prevalence of digital media has made many people often feel "helpless and anxious without their electronic devices." Additionally, attention spans have shortened, and society has become more socially isolated and divided.
However, Dr. Lo pointed out that the Philippines' progress in digital media is hindered by poor connectivity and slow internet speed. "Our internet providers have the crucial task of scaling up their services for us to get up to speed in this highly connected world. Are they up to it?"

DR. RAYMUNDO LO delivers his speech on the good, the bad and the ugly aspects of digital media. (Arnold Quizol)
In response to the citation, Lo expressed that the award held "special significance" for him due to his medical background, making it his inaugural recognition in the field of journalism. His "Under the Microscope" column, published every Tuesday in the print and online editions of the opinion section, offers insightful commentary on public health and community life.
The Makatao Awards, held every Year by PMAP, aims to honor mass media members — from television, radio, print, online broadcast, and social media — for their "outstanding works, articles, features, and contributions that enhance public understanding of the role and impact of sound people management in both the public and private sector in the Philippines."