GMA's Raffy Tima Stresses Human Role in Journalism Amid AI Rise
“The heart of a story is human… Stay true to what you write and let that lead you.”
Fresh from his coverage at Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), these were the words of GMA Integrated News Producer Rufino “Raffy” Tima to Lifenews staffers in the annual MGC New Life Christian Academy Journalism Workshop held last August 16 in the Lecture Hall, with the theme “Passion & Purpose in Journalism: Navigating the AI Era.”
Tima began his talk by sharing his firsthand experience covering the recent Chinese Coast Guard vessel collision in the WPS. The Kapuso journalist was on board the Philippine Coast Guard ship that was being chased by a Chinese Coast Guard vessel, which then collided with a People’s Liberation Army Navy destroyer. Emphasizing the importance of a human presence in reporting on events such as these, Tima stressed, “AI can never replicate this. Human journalists are required for events like this.”
Tima acknowledged the prevalence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its growing influence on journalism, noting both the positive and negative effects. While AI has greatly helped in his multimedia storytelling, Tima noted that it lacks the human empathy and ethical judgement that actual journalists provide. Thus, he urged students to use AI responsibly and practice transparency when using it as a supporting tool.
In the following session, the multi-awarded broadcast journalist discussed Mobile Journalism (MoJo) and MoJo videography, which he pioneered. Showing footage of his many MoJo coverages, Tima demonstrated how various electronic devices, including smartphones, provide convenience in covering news. He then shared advice on how to improve filming and capture better footage using mobile devices.
To close, Tima urged Lifenews staffers to keep on reading, highlighting the importance of remembering the stories of the past in identifying newsworthy events. “Don’t forget your history. Dapat maging news consumer din kayo,” he added.
The workshop concluded with the staffers splitting into breakout sessions tailored to their specific sections. Former ABS-CBN Digital Media Deputy Editor Fernando “Jun” Sepe Jr.; ABS-CBN News Digital Journalist and Cartoonist Dennis Gasgonia aka Isang Tasang Kape; Marikina High School Filipino Teacher and School Paper Adviser Kimberly Capuno-Camposano; and former Lifenews editors Raine Alexis Kho, Raphael Saria, and Alexa Rae Tan all shared their experiences and insights with the Lifenews staffers during the final session in the afternoon.
