FROM BEEPERS TO BYTES
Reflecting on my journey in tech journalism, it's clear how much the landscape has evolved since I was appointed the TechNews Editor of the Manila Bulletin. At that time, I believed I had reached the peak of my career. However, technology, ever-pervasive and constantly evolving, had different plans. It wasn't long before technology's influence expanded beyond traditional tech news, permeating every facet of journalism—from motoring tech and lifestyle tech to entertainment tech, real estate tech, and even agri tech. This integration shows technology's critical role in our lives and society's fabric.
It dawned on me that traditional tech journalism, as we know it, is on the brink of transformation. It's becoming evident that the conventional approach to covering technology as a separate beat will soon fade away. Instead, technology will be embedded in every part of our lives, seamlessly integrated into all forms of journalism. This paradigm shift highlights the omnipresence of technology, highlighting its relevance not just as a niche area but as a fundamental element intertwined with every aspect of our existence.
Recognizing the shifting paradigm, the Manila Bulletin's management gave me a new role and promoted me to Senior Technology Officer (STO). This added function was a significant departure from my previous position. It wasn't just about covering tech news anymore but about understanding and integrating technology across all domains of the Manila Bulletin. In my new role, I now work closely with all editors, weaving technology perspectives into a broad array of subjects, even those not traditionally linked with tech. This involves working with our editorial team to ensure technology's influence is thoughtfully integrated across all our content verticals. I also play a role in the company's overall technology strategy, overseeing the implementation and management of innovations by exploring new technologies, conducting research, and experimenting with cutting-edge solutions.
This transition in my career mirrored the broader transformation within journalism and the Manila Bulletin's relationship with technology. As the newly appointed Senior Technology Officer, I've come to appreciate technology's deep impact on our lives. It shapes how we communicate, work, learn, and entertain ourselves. Technology has revolutionized news gathering, production, and distribution mechanisms, enabling real-time reporting, data-driven storytelling, and global reach through digital platforms.
The importance of technology extends beyond just the tools and gadgets; it is about the transformative impact on everything. In motoring, technology has made transportation safer and more efficient. In lifestyle and entertainment, it has personalized our leisure experiences. In real estate, technology has made the market more accessible and transparent. And in agriculture, tech innovations are making farming more productive and sustainable.
My evolution from TechNews Editor to Senior Technology Officer at the Manila Bulletin is not just a personal achievement. It reflects the broader shift in journalism and society towards recognizing and embracing the pervasive influence of technology. This role expansion signifies journalism's need to adapt, ensuring comprehensive coverage and integrating technology into all areas of life. It highlights our responsibility to keep the public informed about the innovations that shape their world, demonstrating that technology is not just a sector we cover—it's a lens through which we view all aspects of modern life.