Arnold goes 'casual' in new show

MANILA, Philippines - A crisp suit with a tie and a pair of leather shoes is Arnold Clavio’s typical get-up whenever he delivers the news early mornings on GMA 7’s Unang Hirit or late nights in Saksi.

But behind the formal look is also a funny guy.

This, members of the entertainment press found out while they talked to the news anchor in a restaurant, few blocks away from GMA. The veteran news anchor helms Q-11’s Tonight with Arnold Clavio beginning tonight at 8:15 and every Monday, Tuesday and Friday thereafter (it will air weeknights when American Idol 9 ends).

“I’ll open the show with a dance number,” quips Arnold. And I can’t help but wonder: Will he still be in a stiff attire while doing light talk in his first primetime show?

Arnold balks at the idea of wearing suspenders the way Larry King does on his show. Arnold feels it would be more fitting to still be in his coat but this time, minus the tie. In short, he’s loosening up a bit yet maintaining his credibility as news and public affairs host.

“The Pinoy audience is different. Ayaw ng masyadong strong. So you’ll see my witty side shows and the lighter side of the guests,” he says. “I want people to get to know a certain personality beyond his role in the society or position in the government like the politicians, madi-differentiate na di lahat corrupt,” he says.

Since election time is just around the corner, Arnold is initially guesting those running for public office. “We invited them together with their wives so we could learn who exactly they are in the eyes of the one closest to their hearts.”

In the pilot show, Arnold treats viewers to an informative discussion regarding issues with presidentiable Richard Gordon and wife Kate. He prepares for each subject by reading the newspapers or browsing the Net. Arnold’s 23-year experience in news gathering has helped him take matters seriously even “if the show deals about the guests’ lighter side.”

“I always give the benefit of the doubt because I want to know every side to clear a certain issue. I’m not the type who easily points an accusing finger,” he shares.

Arnold started gathering news for the Senate in 1987 and became a news writer on DWIZ, sister company of DZRH, with Ron Macatangay and Mar D’Guzman Cruz with Bobby Guanzon as main anchor. But when Guanzon jumped ship to GMA, he took Arnold in as voice over and reporter for the Tagalog version of the news. Arnold’s first TV appearance was in 1994 via Brigada Siete.

“That’s why madami na din tayong source of information,” he says. “Sometimes, even while I’m playing golf, the caddy or umbrella girl gives details na pwedeng i-blind item.”

Does he get hate mail or death threats from those he hits hard during discussions?

“I’m after the issues, not the person,” Arnold says. But sometimes it cannot be helped that there are criticisms and I accept them because I don’t believe in monopoly of ideas.”

What does he pray for?

“More on health because I am diabetic at maraming bawal lalo na lack of sleep.”

Having been on TV and radio every day of the week, does Arnold have enough time for himself and his family?

“I wake up at 4:30 in the morning every day then take power naps in between. I spend time with my family during weekends,” he replies.

In fact, Arnold maximized the recent Lenten break by getting away from it all with his family. But it will be back to reality for him today, when he reports back to work.

And his Q-11 viewers will see a refreshed, recharged Arnold Clavio showing what the politicians are, away from the maddening crowd, starting tonight.