The Rise of Julius Babao: From Hard-Hitting Journalism to Authentic Advocacy 

The Rise of Julius Babao: From Hard-Hitting Journalism to Authentic Advocacy

Meet Julius Babao, a name that resonates with integrity, credibility, and respect – a name that is synonymous with journalism in the Philippines. Born on July 25, 1970, in Sampaloc, Manila, Babao had a humble beginning. He started his career as a news writer at DZMM TeleRadyo, which turned out to be a defining moment for him, and he never looked back.

Over the years, Babao has transformed himself from a hard-hitting journalist to an authentic advocate of social causes and issues in the Philippines. His unwavering commitment to the truth, passion, and empathy have earned him a place among the most influential personalities in the country.

Let’s dive into the various aspects of his journey and find out how he became an influential figure and a beacon of hope for the masses.

Before becoming a journalist, Babao tried his hand at various jobs, including as a radio disc jockey, a PBA stadium announcer, and a salesman. However, he always had a flair for writing and reporting. In 1993, he was hired as a news writer at DZMM TeleRadyo, an ABS-CBN-owned radio station. He soon established himself as a credible journalist and received opportunities to report live on significant events across the country.

His coverage of the 1995 Ozone Disco Club fire incident in Quezon City, which claimed the lives of 162 people, including many students celebrating their graduation, made him a known name. His reports were raw, unfiltered, and strikingly powerful, capturing the anguish of the victims and their families. It made the government act, and Babao was praised for his journalism.

In 1997, Babao transitioned to ABS-CBN, a major media conglomerate in the Philippines, and became a reporter for its flagship newscast, “TV Patrol.” He continued to report on sensitive issues, and his coverage on extra-judicial killings, the kidnapping of foreign journalists, and the Ampatuan Massacre elevated his status as a journalist.

Babao’s relentless pursuit of the truth and his willingness to confront those in power made him a hard-hitting journalist. He was unapologetic and uncompromising in his reporting, even when it made him a target of threats and intimidation. But he continued to report, stating, “Journalism is not just a job, but also a responsibility.”

In 2009, Babao’s life took a turn. He and his family received a kidney transplant, which made him realize the value of life and the importance of giving back. It was then that Babao began to transform himself from a journalist to an authentic advocate of social causes in the Philippines.

He became active in supporting the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, which provides medical care for indigent children. He also joined various charity works, such as the Gawad Kalinga housing project, where he helped build homes for the poor. Babao’s advocacy was not limited to reporting but also extended to supporting those in need.

Babao’s transformation from a journalist to an authentic advocate was gradual. In 2013, he became the host of a new show called “Mission Possible,” which aired on ABS-CBN. The show highlights human-interest stories, such as how ordinary Filipinos help their fellowmen in times of need. It showcased the strengths of Filipinos, harnessing the power of positivity and empathy.

Additionally, in the same year, Babao became the anchor of “Ako Ang Simula,” a series on ABS-CBN that features various advocacies and initiatives that aim to help the marginalized sectors of society.

His program was instrumental in raising awareness on pressing issues such as poverty, education, and environmental protection. Babao’s authenticity and empathy were visible in every episode, and his passion for making a change inspired many to join his cause.

Q1: What are the major works of Julius Babao?

A1: Julius Babao is a known name in the Philippines for his hard-hitting journalism and advocacy works. He started his career as a news writer at DZMM Teleradyo, and later, he became a reporter for ABS-CBN’s flagship newscast, TV Patrol. He covered significant events, showcasing the raw emotions of the victims, which made him a target of threats. But despite that, he continued reporting. He transformed himself from a journalist to an authentic advocate, highlighting social causes and advocating for them. Julius Babao started hosting Mission Possible, where he showcases human-interest stories and Ako Ang Simula, which features different advocacies to help marginalized sectors of society.

Q2: What caused Julius Babao’s transformation?

A2: Julius Babao’s transformation was due to the kidney transplant he and his family received in 2009. The surgery made him realize the value of life and the importance of giving back. Rather than limiting himself to reporting, he began advocating for social causes such as poverty, education, and environmental protection.

Q3: What is Julius Babao’s advocacy?

A3: Julius Babao’s advocacy includes several works such as supporting the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, the Gawad Kalinga housing project, and highlighting various advocacies that aim to help the marginalized sectors of society. Julius Babao has been actively advocating for issues related to poverty, education, and environmental protection.

Q4: What is Mission Possible?

A4: Mission Possible is a show hosted by Julius Babao that airs on ABS-CBN. The show is all about human-interest stories, which showcases how ordinary Filipinos help their fellowmen.

Q5: What is Julius Babao’s impact on Filipino society?

A5: Julius Babao is one of the most influential personalities in the Philippines and has been an advocate for social causes, such as poverty, education, and environmental protection. His dedication to journalism has changed the lives of many. He has inspired many Filipinos to join his cause and has challenged the government to take the needed steps in solving issues related to society.

Julius Babao’s journey is a testament to his perseverance, commitment, and authenticity. He has been a voice for the voiceless, and through his advocacy, he has made a difference in the lives of many. His transformation from a hard-hitting journalist to an authentic advocate is a story of a man who found his true calling and purpose in life.

Through his programs and initiatives, Babao has inspired many Filipinos to make a difference in their communities. He has challenged the government to take action on pressing societal issues, and his journalism has contributed to holding those in power accountable.

Julius Babao’s work has left a lasting impact on Filipino society and will continue to inspire future generations.