Top gov’t officials salute PT for ‘job well done’

“JOB well done!”

This was the resounding message of the country’s top government officials to People’s Tonight as it marks its 50th year this September 24, 2023.

On its golden year, well-wishers applauded People’s Tonight for continuing to be a groundbreaker in the local news industry.

People’s Tonight instantly lorded it over the fiercely competitive arena of journalism 50 years earlier with its exclusive and running stories on crime, sensational events and the paranormal. It also introduced sexy but not obscene features on nymphets who were later catapulted to fame and fortune.

The genuine people’s tabloid was an instant hit for it had the formula which readers exactly wanted — crime, sex, information, public service, and more.

PT has helped solve countless incidents of violence, missing persons and other criminal cases. It has also been instrumental in extending various forms of assistance to people from all walks of life.

People’s Tonight wouldn’t have continued to edge out the competition and hurdled numerous crises without the dedication and malasakit of its hard-working editors, reporters, correspondents, columnists, editorial assistants and staff.

Editor-in-chief Tess L. Lardizabal treats everybody in PT as if they were her own brood and family. She fully supports and guides the reporters, editorial staff and the rest. She makes it a point to heap praises on their achievements when warranted. Like a disciplinarian mother, she puts wayward ‘kids’ in place and sternly sets them in the right direction.

 

Section editors Ian Farinas (Entertainment) and Ed Andaya (Sports) are icons in their respective departments. They are the go-to and editorial almanacs as far as local and foreign showbusiness as well as sports are concerned. Their pages have also been instrumental in making People’s Tonight soar to unprecedented heights.

 

PT readers are updated and get and in-depth analysis of national and foreign issues in the columns of Vic Reyes (Tingnan Natin), Ignacio ‘Toting’ Bunye (Speaking Out), Allan Encarnacion (Halabira), Mario Fetalino (Last Mohican), Edd Reyes (Lagot Ka), Marlon Purificacion (Uncovered), Bro. Clifford Sorita (Our Best Kept Secret), ex- Rep. Magi Gunigundo (Pointguard) and celebrity physician Dr. Tony Leachon (Relentless for Change).
Also a popular corner is that of Paul Gutierrez (Paul’s Alarm), executive director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS).

 

Assisting the desk is copy editor Ed Velasco as well as desk assistants/layouters Patricia Ann Docillo, Jazzlyn delos Santos, Candie Mae Ramos and Carlota Encierto.
Proofreader with hawk eyes is Nelson S. Gutierrez.

 

 

PT’s ace reporters and correspondents, many of whom have received numerous awards and citations are Ryan Ponce Pacpaco (House), Alfred Dalizon (Crame), Marlon Purificacion (Senate), Zaida delos Reyes (AFP, Crame, reporter at large), Arlene Posadas (PCSO, EPD, BFP), Ma. Socorro Victorio (QC courts, Elliptical, DENR), Cristina Pisco (Embassies, Tourism, DFA), Camille Balagtas (Senate), PS Jun M. Sarmiento (Senate), Melnie Ragasa (QCPD, Health, Weather), Joel Legaspi (DOTR, NAIA, BI, Transportation), Jojo Magsombol (Batangas, OFW, Foreign), Bernard Galang (Central Luzon ), Steve Gosuico (Central Luzon), Dennis Abrina (Cavite), Celso Lidot (Cavite), Joseph Muego (Photojournalist at large), Jonjon Reyes (MPD, Manila City Hall, Tourism) and Edd Reyes (SPD, Manila City Hall).

For pouring 50 years of malasakit to its loyal readers and the public, People’s Tonight received the following wellspring of well wishes from top government officials led by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez as well as Tingog Party List Reps. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre:

 

 

House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez: On this momentous occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the dedicated individuals behind the enduring success of People’s Tonight as you celebrate your remarkable 50th anniversary.

For over half a century, you have been a vital part of the Philippine media landscape, delivering news and stories that have informed, entertained, and connected countless readers nationwide. Your unwavering commitment to the highest standards of journalism is truly commendable.

People’s Tonight has not only been a chronicler of the times but a source of truth and a platform for diverse voices to be heard. In an era of fast-paced information, your dedication to accuracy and integrity serves as a guiding light in the world of journalism. Throughout the years, you have weathered challenges, adapted to changing media landscapes, and remained resilient. Your ability to stay relevant and serve the needs of your readers is a testament to your editorial excellence and your understanding of the ever-evolving dynamics of news reporting. People’s Tonight has not only been a source of news but a reflection of the country’s rich culture, vibrant society, and the pulse of the nation.

Your features, articles, and stories have celebrated the achievements, addressed critical issues, and provided a window into the lives of Filipinos from all walks of life. As you embark on this new year, may your commitment to journalistic excellence continue to shine brightly. Your 50th anniversary is not just a milestone but a testament to your enduring legacy. I look forward to witnessing the continued impact of People’s Tonight in the years to come, as you navigate the ever-changing media landscape with the same passion and dedication that has defined you for the past half-century. Once again, congratulations on this remarkable achievement, and here’s to many more years of informing, inspiring, and connecting Filipinos across the nation. Mabuhay kayong lahat!

 

Tingog Party List Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, House Commitee on Accounts chairperson: Congratulations to People’s Tonight on its 50th anniversary and to the hard-working men and women behind it. You have raised the bar of excellence in tabloid reporting. Continue being an inspiration and making positive change in people’s lives. Mabuhay at mapagpalang anibersaryo, People’s Tonight!

 

House Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre: Happy 50th anniversary to one of the country’s most trusted and reliable news organizations, People’s Tonight. Your paper has set the highest standards in journalism by being faithful to your calling as our people’s vanguard of truth and justice. People’s Tonight has been always there to show a strong commitment to upholding press freedom while ensuring fair and balanced reporting. Congratulations and more power!

 

House Deputy Speaker and Cebu (5th District) Rep. Duke Frasco: “Sending my warmest congratulations to People’s Tonight on your 50th anniversary! In celebrating this important milestone of yours, let me express my profound gratitude and highest commendation for your efforts in keeping the public informed with current news, as we acknowledge the significance of free media in a democratic society such as ours. May you continue serving the people with timely and transparent broadcasting. Mabuhay sa limampung taon ninyong serbisyo para sa bayan at daghang salamat!”

 

General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. Chief, Philippine National Police: The 228,000-strong Philippine National Police congratulates People’s Tonight, one of the country’s leading tabloids on its 50th anniversary. Since 1973, People’s Tonight has been a major partner of the PNP and its predecessor, the Philippine Constabulary/Integrated National Police when it comes to dishing out timely and accurate information about what your police force has been doing to truly ‘serve and protect’ and really enforce the law without fear or favor. Wishing the paper’s entire staff and management all the best in the years ahead as we unite to promote peace and progress in our beloved country.

 

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director General Moro Virgilio M. Lazo: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency congratulates People’s Tonight on its 50th anniversary. PT has been a solid media partner of the PDEA in promoting the national government’s campaign against illegal drug trafficking and abuse thru its widely-read articles on our accomplishments and our anti-drug awareness programs and other advocacies. Congratulations to People’s Tonight from the entire men and women of the PDEA.

 

Manila Vice Mayor John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto: Maligayang pagbati sa People’s Tonight sa okasyon ng Ginintuang Anibersaryo nito. Sa loob ng limang dekada ng patas at walang-kinikilingang pamamahayag, patuloy ang pagtugis ng People’s Tonight ng mga balitang, hindi lamang totoo, kundi lubhang makabuluhan sa ating bansa at sa mga Pilipino. Ang inyong ika-50 anibersaryo nawa ay maging hudyat ng mas pinaigting na paglilingkod sa sambayanang Pilipino at pagtupad ng tungkulin bilang ika-apat na estado ng lipunan. Nawa ay patuloy kayong maghatid ng mahahalagang balita at opinyon na nagdaragdag ng kaalaman at kamalayan sa ating mga kababayan, at maging sa ating mga namumuno, upang makapagpasya nang nararapat para sa ating kapakanan. Muli, maligayang anibersaryo sa People’s Tonight. Hangad namin ang marami pa ninyong tagumpay.

 

Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” D. Gonzales Jr.: Congratulations to People’s Tonight on the celebration of your remarkable milestone. I along with my constituents join countless readers of yours in honoring the legacy of People’s Tonight. Cheers to 50 years of journalistic excellence and public service that have been making a difference in the lives of many Filipinos in the last five decades.

 

House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City 2nd District Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe: Happy 50th anniversary to one of the country’s most trusted news organizations, People’s Tonight. For 50 years, your organization has set the highest standards of journalism and has stayed faithful to your calling as our people’s vanguard of truth and justice. Congratulations!

 

Cavite Rep. Elpidio “Pidi” Barzaga Jr., Chairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources and a stalwart of the National Unity Party (NUP): Congratulations to People’s Tonight for reaching this significant milestone. Fifty years of delivering exceptional journalism and keeping our country well-informed as the vanguard of truth. People’s Tonight has made an incredible journey and an indelible impact on the lives of many Filipinos through the years for being a beacon of truth, the voice of the people, and a source of inspiration. Continue with your unwavering commitment to delivering accurate, unbiased, and fair news reporting because reliable journalism is more important than ever.

 

House Deputy Minority Leader and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman, former governor of the now-defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM): May you continue to thrive, as a source of reliable and balanced news and information, inspiration, and knowledge for generations to come. You are part of Philippine history and the five decades are testaments to your enduring impact on the lives of many Filipinos. Congratulations once again on this momentous occasion, and here’s to the next 50 years of journalistic excellence! With heartfelt admiration and warmest wishes,

 

Sen. Sonny Angara, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance: Congratulations to all the editors, reporters, and staff of People’s Tonight on your 50th-year anniversary. People’s Tonight has consistently risen to the occasion, serving as a trusted source of very important news and information and a platform for diverse voices to be heard. I salute your dedication to quality reporting and your pursuit of truth has not only kept us well-informed but has also made accountable those in power who may have committed wrongdoings. Warmest anniversary wishes.

 

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva: Congratulations to the men and women behind People’s Tonight on your 50th year in Philippine journalism. Your newspaper has been a watchdog for the country’s democracy and your commitment to upholding the highest journalistic standards is truly commendable. May you continue to be a vanguard of truth and inspire us through your fair, objective, and balanced reporting. Congratulations on your well-deserved success!

 

Sen. Grace Poe, Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Economic Affairs, Public Services: Binabati ko ang People’s Tonight sa pagdiriwang ng inyong ika-limampung taong anibersaryo. Naging bahagi na ng kasaysayan ang inyong pahayagan at patunay na buhay na buhay ang print media. Lalo sanang pagtibayin ng People’s Tonight ang makabuluhang pagbabalita at paghahatid ng kuwento ng mga Pilipino.

 

Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Chairman of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs: My warmest congratulations to all the editors, journalists, and staff of People’s Tonight on the occasion of your 50th year of the fair and balanced reporting in the country. Thank you for your invaluable contributions in the last 50 years of giving the public valuable and truthful information. May People’s Tonight continue to thrive, evolve, and remain a pillar of journalistic integrity for generations to come. Congratulations!

 

Romblon Rep. Eleandro Jesus “Budoy” Madrona, Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism: I commend all the women and men behind People’s Tonight on your 50 years of excellence and many more years of impactful journalism ahead. May you continue to shine a light on the truth, and help in nation-building, and inspire us all to be well-informed and responsible citizens through your fair, truthful, and balanced reporting. Congratulations!

 

Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte, National Unity Party (NUP) president: Congratulations to the editors, reporters, and staff of People’s Tonight on the celebration of your 50 years of journalistic excellence.You have reached this milestone as one of the pillars of Philippine journalism because of your fair, truthful, and balanced reporting. I commend all of you for the remarkable journey you have undertaken in consistently observing truth, integrity, and accountability in your daily reportage. Congratulations once again on this momentous occasion!

 

Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan: My warmest greetings to the men and women of People’s Tonight and congratulations on your 50th anniversary! Journalism is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy, and I am glad that for five decades now, People’s Tonight has been there to empower Filipinos with information to make them better equipped to make decisions about their lives and participate in democratic processes. Journalism has also historically played a significant role in advocating for social change, and I look forward to the next 50 years of People’s Tonight as it chronicles our nation’s history on our way to inclusive progress for all. Congratulations once again! Mabuhay ang People’s Tonight!

 

Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food: Thank you People’s Tonight for being a beacon of truth, a source of reliable and truthful information, and a voice of the people in the last fifty years. Your strong commitment to journalistic excellence has made People’s Tonight a cornerstone of our country and kept us informed through times of change and challenge. People’s Tonight has consistently risen to the occasion in an era where the importance of reliable journalism cannot be overstated. May you continue to serve as a tireless advocate for truth, integrity, and accountability and always be a watchdog for democracy and a champion of free press. Congratulations and more power!

 

Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin T. Tulfo: Warmest congratulations to People’s Tonight for achieving the extraordinary feat of 50 years in the realm of Journalism! This incredible journey serves as a testament to your resolute dedication in imparting news, narratives, and discernments to readers throughout the nation. Over the past five decades, you have remained an esteemed source of information, a voice of the people, and a reflection of society’s pulse. As you commemorate this golden anniversary, may you continue to shine brightly in the world of journalism, enlightening intellects and shaping our collective awareness. Congratulations once more, and may your legacy continue to inspire generations to come.

 

Usec. Paul M. Gutierrez, Executive Director, Presidential Task Force on Media Security: I join the management, the Editorial Board and my fellow reporters, columnists, correspondents and other staff of the Philippine Journalists’ Inc. in welcoming the 50th year of People’s Journal Tonight, a feat that is yet to be achieved by other publications in the country.

This anniversary marks the day when we join the ‘elite’ in the publication industry who have survived the rigors and challenges of the past 50 years of our nation’s tumultuous history.

Having originally joined the Journal Group in October 1998 and returning again around 2005 after a brief sojourn in another publication, People’s Tonight has helped me a lot in my development as a reporter, as a leader of the National Press Club and now, as a public servant in my capacity as Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security or PTFoMS.

He may have passed away but still, the memory of our beloved and highly esteemed Group Editor Gus Villanueva, continues to linger; his many advise on how to get along with people and sharp eyes for details in every story that I wrote for People’s Tonight are gems of wisdom that continue to guide me in my new job.

As we look forward to the centennial of our beloved newspaper, People’s Tonight, I am sure it would continue to perform its role as a credible depository of the written accounts of all events and incidents that matter in the everyday life of our people and our nation.

Again, I am happy to join everyone in the celebration of this momentous occasion.

MABUHAY!

 

AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee: Warmest greetings and congratulations to the People’s Tonight as you celebrate your 50th Anniversary! For the past five decades, Filipinos have been blessed to have your services through meaningful news, in-depth commentaries, and insightful content and entertainment to keep them well-informed about stories that matter. I wish to thank you for your time and interest in reporting about th initiatives and efforts of the AGRI Party-list in improving the agriculture and other sectors, as well as easing the burden of our countrymen. Let us continue working together in pursuing our shared causes to achieve a society wherein Winner Tayo Lahat. Again, congratulations and more power!

 

Anakalusugan Party-list Rep. Ray T. Reyes, Vice-chairman of the House Committee on Health: Congratulations, People’s Tonight! Your five decades of delivering balanced news is an incredible milestone! By your commitment to fair and responsible journalism, you have established yourself as a cornerstone of news reporting and have immensely contributed to shaping the fabric of society. Happy 50th Anniversary!

Batangas (2nd District) Rep. Gerville ‘Jinky Bitrics’ R. Luistro,Vice Chairperson of House Committee on Tourism: Ladies and Gentlemen, Tonight, we gather to celebrate a momentous occasion – the 50th Anniversary of People’s Tonight. For half a century, this esteemed tabloid has been a beacon of journalism, a source of information, and a mirror reflecting the pulse of our society. In an era where information is key, People’s Tonight has played a pivotal role in keeping our citizens informed, engaged, and empowered. Through the highs and lows, the triumphs and trials, this publication has remained steadfast in its commitment to journalistic integrity and serving the public interest.

This representation wishes to express her gratitude for the invaluable role People’s Tonight has played in our community. Your dedication to truth, fairness, and storytelling has made a significant impact on our society, and your unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence is truly commendable.

On this historic occasion, let us not only celebrate the past 50 years but also look ahead to the future.

The importance of a free and responsible press cannot be overstated, and I am confident that People’s Tonight will continue to shine as a beacon of truth, a champion of the people, and a vital cornerstone of our democracy.

Congratulations on reaching this remarkable milestone, and here’s to many more years of insightful journalism and community service.

 

Manila 2nd Dist. Cong. Rolando “CRV” M. Valeriano, Chairman of the House Committee on Metro Manila Development: It thrills me to greet a Manileño institution a happy golden anniversary. People’s Tonight has witnessed many historical events in our country and through its lenses, it has narrated life’s rigors of our countrymen across social status. I am happy to be part of some of these narrations while I share a few accounts in our politics. As you have now traversed a colorful 50-year stardom in Philippine dailies, I wish that you rise even higher to be visible as an emblem of hard work, patriotism, and dedicated service. May these long years of triumphs and struggles in your career embolden you more to be a resolute sentinel of truths in journalism. May your office in Manila continue to symbolize the heroic courage of our past to the future. I send your management, editors, writers, and other crews in your daily grinds, that long pier of congratulatory greetings and applause. Job well done.

 

Atty. Don Artes, MMDA acting chairman: Pagbati at pagpupugay sa ika-50 anibersaryo ng isa sa pinakamatatag na pahayagan sa ating bansa. Maraming salamat sa inyong patas, wasto, at responsableng paghahatid ng mga balitang pambansa at pandaigdig araw-araw. Binabati ko ang mga mamamahayag at lahat ng taong bumubuo sa People’s Tonight na hindi matatawaran ang kredibilidad. sa loob ng limang dekada. Mabuhay kayo at Maligayang Anibersaryo sa inyong lahat!

From Manila Police District’s officers, PT’s dedicated photojournalist Jonjon C. Reyes writes:

 

Nagpahayag ng pagbati si The game Changer General, MPD Chief PBGen. Andre P. Dizon, sa ika 50th anibersaryo ng People’s Tonight. Taos-puso rin siyang nagpasalamat sa walang sawang suporta ng nangungunang tabloid sa mga kapulisan ng Manila Police District at pagbalita sa mga magagandang accomplishments ng MPD. Mga kuha ni JONJON C. REYES

MPD: MABUHAY ANG PEOPLE’S TONIGHT! –Pinakita ng kapulisan ng Manila Police District ang kanilang taos-pusong pagbati at pasasalamat sa numero unong tabloid na People’s Tonight sa pamamagitan ng pagtangkilik ng bawa’t isang miyembro ng MPD ng mga kopya ng PT. Mga kuna ni JONJON C. REYES

Happy 50th anniversary People’s Tonight. Mabuhay!

Ito ang naging mensahe mga kapulisan at pamunuan ng Manila Police District (MPD) sa pangunguna ni “The Game Changer General” MPD Chief Police Brig. General Andre P. Dizon.

Nagpahatid din ng pagbati ang iba pang opisyal ng MPD staff na sina PCol. Raul Tacaca, DDA-MPD; PCol. Roderico Roy Jr., DDO-MPD; PCol. Julius Cecil Ordono, CDDS; PCol. Julius Anonuevo, Force Commander ng DMFB-MPD; PCol.Samuel Pabonita, Chief,DID; PLt.Col.Harry Lorenzo, DLD; PCol.Orlando Mirando Jr. DIDM; PLt.Col.Jay Doles, OIC DPRMD; Police Maj. Philipp Ines, PIO MPD; PCapt,Dennis Turla, Chief ng Homicide Section at maging ang hepe ng MPD Anti-Cybercrime Team Police Capt. Marlon Flores.

Hindi nagpahuli ang mga PCP at station commanders ng MPD sa pagbati at lubos silang nagpasalamat sa People’s Tonight.

Anila, dahil naibabalita ng maayos ang kanilang mga accomplishment tulad ng paghuli sa mga kriminal, pagresolba ng mga kaso ng krimen sa pamamagitan ng People’s Tonight naipaparating sa publiko na ang kapulisan ay kanilang maasahan at mapagkakatiwalaan.

“Bata pa lang ako, nababasa ko na ang mga magagandang storya ng diaryo niyo (Peoples Tonight). Nang maging pulis ako, hindi ko akalain na mailalagay din pala ang pangalan ko sa popular na pahayagan na Peoples Tonight dahil sa isang kriminal na naaresto namin. Ito ay sa pamamagitan ng mga PT reporters at photojournalist na na-assign at naka-assign sa MPD tulad ninaTata Edong Reyes Tata Mar Empaynado,Ric Reyes,Roger Talan at Jon-Jon Reyes. Silang lahat ay mga magagaling na photographer. Kaya bilang pasasalamat sa walang sawa niyong suporta sa mga kapulisan isang SALUDO na pagpupugay at PASASALAMAT ang tangi namin igawad sa inyong anibersaryo.Happy 50th anniversary, Peoples Tonight.

Kabilang sa mga bumati ay sina Police Lt.Col. Roberto Mupas, Commander ng Raxabago P.S-1; Police Lt. Col.Wilson Villaruel, Commander ng Moriones P.S-2; Police Lt.Col. Leandro Gutierrez, Commander ng Sta Cruz P.S-3; Police Lt.Col.Rodel Borbe, Commander ng Sampaloc PS-4; Police Lt.Col.Gilbert Cruz, Commander ng Ermita P.S-5; Police Lt.Col.Jason Aguilon, Commander ng Sta Ana PS-6;Police Lt.Col. Ramon Czar Solas, Commander ng Jose Abad Santos PS-7; Police Lt. Col. Dionelle Brannon, Commander ng Sta Mesa PS-8; Police Lt.Col. Salvador Tangdol, Commander ng Malate PS-9; Police Lt.Col. Maria Agbon, Commander ng Pandacan PS-10; Police Lt.Col. Rexon Layug, Commander ng Miesic Binondo PS11; Police Lt. Col. Restito Acohon, Commander ng Delpan PS12; Police Lt.Col. Emmanuel Mike Gomez, Commander ng Baseco PS13; at Police Lt.Col. Brillante Billaoac, Commander ng Barbosa PS14.

Kasama sa team ng DSOU MPD sa pamumuno ni PMaj.Edward Samonte at ng Special Mayor Reaction Team ni Police Major Rommel Reyes Purisima ang bumati ng, “Mabuhay po, Peoples Tonight. Happy 50th anniversary. More years to celebrate.” By TESS LAPUZ-LARDIZABAL, RYAN PONCE PACPACO, JONJON C. REYES, EDD REYES & MAR RODRIGUEZ