Adventures in radio

It has been amazing eventful, colorful first month and a half for this writer at dwAN 1206 AM. We’ve discovered that there is some pressure in producing the only daily sports program on Philippine radio (11 a.m. to 12 noon Monday to Friday), but it’s a thrilling kind of pressure. Getting in touch with our greatest active and retired athletes is a challenge our program has gladly taken on, and succeeded to a large extent.

Technology has provided two major changes in the medium, however. First, since we can all be seen, radio hosts now have to worry about looking presentable, as well. Clothing, lighting, hair and make-up are as essential as they are on television. You can’t just get out of bed and go to work anymore. This applies to most guests, as well.

In addition, it’s easier for subjects to take things personally, since they can see your face when you make comments about them. Back in the day, you could call someone stupid on the air and get away with it. Now, it’s a gray area where you’re more open to backlash.

Luckily, sports is mostly a less volatile, more relaxed environment. We’ve been fortunate to be able to speak with important sports personalities all over the globe. This includes Sean Chambers (Riga, Latvia with Gilas Pilipinas); EJ Obiena’s sport psychologist Dr. Sheryll Casuga (Paris, France); former world boxing champion Morris East (Las Vegas, Nevada); Gilas Pilipinas Women head coach Pat Aquino (Kigali, Rwanda), and many others who honored us with their consent and openness.

The biggest challenge is scheduling. One hour a day is not easy to fill up, more so when your hosting it solo. Practice schedules, time differences and travel often coincide with our live broadcast, so the only option is often to record, which entails manpower for editing. My daily broadcast coincides with all the PBA team practices, which is something we have to contend with to get the stories.

But all in all, this writer is deeply grateful to be back on radio after more than 30 years. I had forgotten how enjoyable it is. Thanks to IBC network president sir Jimmie Policarpio, station manager Marc Logan, and our creatives head Terence Khan for all the trust and support, and the opportunity to be of service and make more indelible memories. Mabuhay, dwAN 1206 AM.