This is an AI-generated summary, which may contain errors. For context, always refer to the full article.
‘The world has changed since February 28,’ our editor-in-chief Glenda Gloria says in a message to Rapplers. ‘It will take months and years to repair the damage.’
I am writing this as I close work next week. I fly on Monday. Two pressing sticks, opened, lie on top of my drawers.
I always pack the normal stuff regardless of coverage. Black polo shirts, black merino shirt with a heart on the left chest, waterproof jacket, three pairs of hiking pants.
It is important that they are dark and do not show sweat stains for full days outside. I must look clean and put together but avoid unnecessary attention. It’s not part of the packing list that I have in mind when I prepare: Did I forget to talk to the source today? Why is this source not responding? Am I making an impossible request?
Hello, it’s me Yes, Gozumand I cover weather and environment for Rappler.
One item off my to-do list for this assignment was to ask our managing editor for an increased gas allowance. When I made the budget request, the United States and Israel had not yet attacked Iran. The driver called me to ask if I could cover the cost of gas on long trip days.
I leave Manila as the newsroom prepares for a long period of coverage on the effects of the Middle East war and the oil crisis. Journalists would understand the anxiety of leaving as history progresses.
It will only be for a week and when we return, the war will not be over. More gas stations may be closed. The rise in other oil prices. A few cars on the street Reduced hours in supermarkets. Increasing confusion in social aid queues. Community bookstores may soon be on the rise again after founder Patricia Non started one for drivers. As happened when COVID-19 hit.
I recently got an email from Philippine Airlines. Information about your next flight. I braced myself for the delay, imagining the points I had to go through to reschedule the interview. Expect the worst, right? After all, I’m a Gen Z journalist who spent my early years in the newsroom during a pandemic. But the email was just selling me a new version of the plane. Upgrade to Comfort Class now in a few clicks.
“The world has changed since February 28,” our editor-in-chief Glenda Gloria says in a message to Rapplers. “It will take months and years to repair the damage.”
But the goal, he says, has not changed. To do work that “shows why journalism is so important in the most difficult times.” Meanwhile, I add a pink polo shirt to my pack for a pop of color. I run down the schedule in my head. Send a few follow ups and hope for the best.
RECOMMENDED STORIES:
– Rappler.com
