Multi-awarded broadcast journalist Miguel “Mike” Enriquez’s passing is a great loss to Philippine journalism which is currently besieged by fake news and disinformation, Sen. Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada said.
Estrada, who filed a resolution expressing the Senate’s sympathy and condolences to the family and friends of the veteran broadcast journalist, pointed this out on Friday, September 1.
In filing Senate Resolution No. 770, the senator praised Enriquez for his illustrious 54-year career in the field of Philippine journalism and his unparalleled contribution to the industry especially in broadcast communication.
“His passing is a great loss to the Filipino nation, as well as the journalism profession and broadcasting industry which are currently under siege from disinformation, fake news, and other adverse impact of the digital media age,” Estrada said.
“Enriquez’s trademark voice, distinct style of delivering news, and hard-hitting commentaries have become part of countless Filipino households and shaped the consciousness of the citizens about the pressing social issues and current affairs,” the senator said.
“His outstanding body of work, professionalism and unassailable integrity should serve as inspiration for budding mass media practitioners and the younger generations to pursue excellence and hone their craft with purpose and passion,” the lawmaker reiterated.
The veteran broadcaster passed away on Aug. 29, 2023 at the age of 71 after battling serious health issues.
Estrada said the hard-hitting journalist’s dedication to public service was more evident when he returned on air in March last year in time for GMA Network’s special coverage of the 2022 national and local elections even after undergoing a medical procedure.
Enriquez held executive positions in Radio GMA Network Inc. as president, senior vice president, and consultant for radio operations.
On top of this, he also hosted several public affairs programs and radio shows on GMA Network. He is also one of the main anchors of GMA Network’s flagship primetown newscast “24 Oras” and host of the long-running and top-rating public affairs program “Imbestigador.”
Enriquez is also notable for headlining Radio DZBB’s morning radio shows “Super Balita sa Umaga” and “Saksi sa Dobol B.”
A former disc jockey, Enriquez joined the broadcast industry in 1969 and built a distinguished professional career both in radio and television and eventually became one of the most trusted news personalities and pillars of Philippine broadcast.
Enriquez is also a recipient of many distinctions from local and international award-giving bodies which recognized his excellence and contribution in Philippine mass media, among them the Best Newscaster Award from the Asian Television Awards in Singapore in 1999; a gold medal at the New York Festivals for his work in “Saksi” in 2003; and the Silver Camera Award for a documentary about the Iraq War in 2004.