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The Philippines' most-awarded broadcast journalist, Jessica Soho, has once again proved her status as a premier media personality in Asia after being named one of PeopleAsia Magazine's “People of the Year 2026” awardees.

According to PeopleAsia, the award recognizes individuals who serve as symbols of hope, inspiring the public to choose the path of moral courage rather than the path of least resistance.

As one of the Philippines' most trusted and highly decorated broadcast journalists, Jessica was honored in the media category for her four decades of groundbreaking work in the industry.

In an exclusive interview with Balitanghali, Jessica shared her appreciation for the award while candidly acknowledging the weight of expectation and pressure that comes with such recognition.

“Salamat! But it's also humbling kasi this adds more pressure sa trabaho to keep doing the best that you can,” Jessica said.

She continued, “Mahirap na nga as it is, tapos with all of these recognitions, parang nadadagdagan din 'yung responsibilidad ko.”

Jessica also shared that she was happy to receive the distinction, describing it as truly “special” to her.

“But I'm happy to receive it. It's a very special award. Thank you to PeopleAsia para sa special na recognition na ito,” she expressed.

Beyond the accolades, Jessica emphasized her enduring commitment to public service. She expressed her continued desire and drive to remain a vessel for answers, shedding light on the country's most pressing concerns through her rigorous investigations and scrutiny of societal issues.

“Marami pa tayong dapat ibunyag siguro at naghihintay pa rin ang taumbayan ng mga sagot sa napakaraming mga tanong nila,” Jessica said.

“Kailangan na rin ma-address 'yung mga galit ng bayan dito sa mga nangyayari kasi humihirap ang buhay, pero dumadami rin 'yung mga kurakot,” she emphasized.

She also reminded her fellow journalists of the importance of using accurate and verified information, emphasizing that these must be paired with the core values of a good and truthful journalist.

“Importante pa rin, ang laban pa rin ay sa content, pagalingan pa rin ng content. Sa pag-produce ng content, d'yan naman pumapasok 'yung values natin as journalists. 'Yung mga itinuro sa atin sa eskwela, kahit sa newsroom, kailangan panghawakan natin 'yun,” Jessica shared.

Jessica continues to host the highly successful Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS). You can catch KMJS every Sunday night on GMA, livestreamed on the KMJS Facebook page and the GMA Public Affairs YouTube channel, and available to Global Pinoys via GMA Pinoy TV.