Postscript to Arnold Clavio and his Azkals comments

Sure, we see some members of the Philippine Azkals as drawing the line in terms of behavior. And yes, former president Fidel Ramos's daughter Cristy Ramos filed a harassment case against Lexton Moy and Angel Guirado. That will surely teach them, mostly half-Filipinos, not to cross the line in terms of decorum, uprightness, and even morality just because they are foreigners or we owe them the heavens since they are playing for the national team.

But, in my book, broadcaster Arnold Clavio, despite his good intentions to advance the cause against sexual harassment, has also crossed the line. He may have stated the facts right, such as the ongoing case and the arrogance and moral recklessness of some, but must he castigate them in his highly-rated morning show?

Of course, it is his duty to state the facts of anything he reports on, whether it be politics or showbiz. But baring his own feelings or bias on the issue is beyond the norm of TV news reportage. Bashing political figures no end for their alleged crimes against the nation may have been a staple in his radio commentaries. But even then, radio commentators still find a way to try to get the side of both parties, and even the listeners.

Here, in his controversial televised comments, you will see that his choice of words was personal ('Ang yayabang n'yo' is quite striking). The tone of his voice was clearly pointed and sharp, as if he was berating a neighborhood bum for misdeeds. His facial expression was dagger-like, as if he's already judging the alleged perpetrators as guilty. Clearly, he was on the offensive. He turned from news presenter to mere spectator who wants to have his comments known.

A television host moderates the discussion. He does not lord over it with his own bias. I remember one poignant moment in history when Ronnie Nathanielsz was interviewing the late senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. Ronnie, a staunch supporter of the late president Ferdinand Marcos, clearly showed his bias in his facial expression, his reactions to Ninoy's comments, and the tone of his voice. That "Face the Nation" episode even turned a good number of viewers into instant Ninoy followers that night, despite the iron fist rule over media during that period in history.

Instead of just editorializing, a good alternative was to have more people join the discussion, and have Cristy and a representative from Gabriela talk on one end and have at least team captain Aly Borromeo or manager Dan Palami on the other to share their views. That will give a deep and wide perspective on the issue and let viewers decide on who to believe or where to stand.

By Gerry Plaza | omg! Philippines News Blog