Nearly four decades of upholding journalistic excellence have shaped Manila Standard into what it is today.
Through changing administrations, history-defining events, and shifts in leadership and personnel, the publication has stood the test of time, built on the dedication and resilience of its people.
As Manila Standard marks its 38th year with the theme “Empowering a Sustainable Tomorrow,” we take a look at the stories behind the storytellers—the individuals whose loyalty and commitment have helped define the publication’s legacy.
Every era brought its own challenges and opportunities. In the 1990s, when the media industry thrived alongside broadsheets and tabloids, everything was analog.
“Back in 1995, Manila Standard had around 300 employees and was one of the top newspapers in the country,” recalled OIC-Digital Jun Buscas. “I started as a reliever for the accounting department and was later regularized as a billing clerk.”
For Circulations Manager Edgar Valmorida, who celebrates his 30th year with the company, the memories remain vivid. “I was hired and started working the same day—on the paper’s 9th anniversary. The newsroom was alive with journalists typing on DOS WordStar and typewriters, with the air thick with cigarette smoke.”
“At the time, Manila Standard was still using the ‘tall boy’ format, a newspaper size that was a hybrid of a broadsheet and a tabloid. The printing machines ran from 10 p.m. until around 3 a.m. I joined at a time when print journalism was at its peak, serving as one of the primary sources of news and information for the public,” Valmorida recalled.
Manila Standard flourished alongside other publications, catering to the public’s demand for credible information and smoothly transitioning into the new millennium.
As times changed, new faces joined the publication, each bringing fresh perspectives.
Business editor Roderick T. dela Cruz became part of Manila Standard in 2005 when it merged with Today. The Finance Department’s Alfie Payumo and Laurence Araullo also joined during a busy time, but were warmly welcomed into the team.
“I was scared at first because I didn’t know if I would fit in, especially with the night shift,” shared Araullo. “But that fear quickly turned into happiness because of the support from my colleagues.”
“Loyalty for me is a commitment and dedication,”added Payumo.
For Lifestyle and Entertainment Editor Nickie Wang, the journey was long. “I started as an intern in 2008, but it took me seven years to become a regular employee. Working in a publication had always been my childhood dream, and Manila Standard made it a reality.”
Every journalist, editor, and photographer has stories that leave a lasting impact.
For Chief Photographer Felino Santos, some of his most memorable moments include covering Palarong Pambansa, the Tondo demolitions, and Pope John Paul II’s visit.
Valmorida, on the other hand, recalls a special tribute issue to Princess Diana following her tragic death in 1997. “The demand for that issue was so overwhelming that we had to reprint it for a week.”
People Come and Go, But Loyalty Remains
Like any organization, Manila Standard has seen people come and go. But for those who have stayed, the company is more than just a workplace—it’s a family.
“From day one, Manila Standard felt like home,” said Valmorida. “The camaraderie and shared dedication made even the toughest deadlines easier to handle.”
Araullo echoed similar sentiments: “I stayed for 10 years because of the company’s positive culture, strong leadership, and supportive colleagues.”
Sheila Suarez from the Advertising Support Group, recalls the ups and downs of her two decades with Manila Standard.
“I’m not perfect, I commit mistakes and learn from it. But the most important thing is that you learn from your mistakes and strive to be better and learn to be better. I love my job. Excitement and satisfaction in the workplace, I feel love and gained friends,” she said.
For many, Manila Standard has not only provided a fulfilling career, but has also changed their lives.
“Because of Manila Standard, I met my wife, built a home, started a small business, and provided for my family,” said Santos.
