Sonia Soto is a super woman to many advocates of women empowerment. For decades, she has been in the forefront of various social movements before making her own niche in the country’s broadcast industry as a TV executive and broadcaster.

In the early 80s, Sonia led the student democratic reforms movement. (For diligent researchers who wish to take a look, Sonia inked with then Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile the legendary Enrile-Soto Agreement against the suppression of campus unrest—a sort of David versus Goliath saga during the 80s.)

Pampanga PEP shoots a serious question: Is women empowerment about gender equality, or is it more than that?

“An empowered woman is fiercely devoted to the liberation of women and men from gender stereotypes that deny them their fullest human potentials,” she nonchalantly shoots back.
If somebody tells Sonia it can’t be done, how does she get it done? “I simply get it done by doing it,” she said.

Sonia used to be ‘little mayor’ or the administrator of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga who “ran a bureaucracy that needed to be reformed in a big way.” It was this time when CSFP was awarded the Maharlika Hall of Fame for the LGU’s Institutionalization of the Performance Governance System.

Sonia left City Hall in 2007 and reinvented herself—a major challenge in her career which she considers as a defining moment.

Currently, she is president and general manager of Central Luzon Television (CLTV) where she fittingly uses broadcast power “to change viewers’ attitudes toward women’s roles in society.”

She is a recipient of the Golden Dove national award for best public affairs TV host in 2008 from the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) and, under her leadership, CLTV was thrice conferred Golden Dove’s Best TV station award.

Sonia’s passion is to serve the community. “My motivation to get out of bed in the morning is the need to do something that will actually make a difference.”

The narrative might change or the account may remain the same, but the once young radical is still an unbreakable leader and a distinguished influencer who etched her own meaningful and permanent niche as a women’s rights champion in a continuing world where men misguidedly claim ascendancy over women.

Jhoedie Mercado, a highly trusted and respected talent at CLTV36, is known for his cheerful and jovial personality, making him a versatile host capable of switching between hard news programs and lighter magazine talk shows. With an unwavering dedication to his profession, Jhoedie has worn many hats at CLTV36, including those of a writer, producer, reporter, and news anchor.
Under his leadership, CLTV36's flagship news program, Balitang Central Luzon, was awarded the Best TV Newscast at the KBP Golden Dove Awards in 2015.
Jhoedie has a strong connection with his roots and is a passionate advocate of Kapampangan culture. He previously hosted the renowned good news program "Ayos Ka-Rehiyon" and CLTV36's first Kapampangan language newscast, "Balen at Balita." Additionally, he has played a significant role in hosting and directing the City of San Fernando's Giant Lantern Festival, a highly anticipated event in the province.
Among his various roles, Jhoedie was one of the hosts of CLTV36's Kapampangan cultural program, "Atin Kaming K!" Moreover, he leads the Human Resources and Organizational Development Department, showcasing his commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth within the organization.
Currently, viewers can watch Jhoedie Mercado in the digital sphere with Jhoedie's TopPick, an exciting digital content series that delves into the vibrant culinary scene, fascinating individuals, and thrilling events of Pampanga and beyond.

Justine Dizon has been working as a professional journalist since 2011. A graduate of Communication Arts from the University of Sto. Tomas, he decided to pursue a career in broadcast journalism by starting as a cameraman for CLTV36, although this was not originally his plan. The encouraging words of his mentors, Joey Hernal, then the head of the News Department, and Philippine Daily Inquirer journalist and Pampanga Press Club President Tonette Orejas may have played a big role in his decision to shift to broadcast journalism. Justine especially counts his experience working with Tonette Orejas on her investigative journalism program “Isapubliko” as one of the most valuable in his career, where he was “able to learn firsthand from the legend.”

For a time, he became interested in filmmaking and briefly left CLTV36 to produce short films, some of which garnered awards, but journalism was always a part of him. He adds, “When I left CLTV36, she asked me to join her in the Philippine Daily Inquirer. And as we all know, writing in the newspaper is not a walk in the park, but I’m grateful that the Inquirer North Luzon Bureau welcomed me and taught me a lot of things.”

Justine has led an inspiring career in media, one marked by hard work and dedication. NUJP and his Fellowship at Konrad Adenauer Media-Programme in Asia, as well as his graduate studies in Ateneo furthered his interest and love for journalism and the free press. He says, “This is where I get to exchange ideas and learn from stalwarts of Philippine journalism as well as journalists across the Asian and European region.”

Aside from being a correspondent for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, he was also a stringer for CNN Philippines. He also took the time to teach journalism, and TV and film production subjects at the Holy Angel University.

He currently heads the Current Affairs Department of CLTV36, Central Luzon’s regional TV station. He is also one of the directors of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines and a fellow of the Konrad Adenauer-Stiftung Media Programme in Asia. He also has a Masters Degree in Journalism from the Ateneo de Manila University.

Starting his career in the media industry as a researcher for “Imbestigador,” Paulo Santos also worked on other programs from Manila-based networks including “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho.” Known for his distinctive voice, Paulo was also a radio reporter for DZBB GMA News TV, covering major events such as the Manila Hostage Crisis, the Napoles Hearing, and typhoon coverages of Typhoon Ondoy and Yolanda. He also had a stint as a morning newscaster for Inquirer.net’s “Kontra-Versa.”

When not working, Paulo enjoys vlogging and sharing humorous anecdotes about his daily life. He is currently a reporter for “CLTV News.”

Jose Miguel De Jesus, or JM, is a rising talent among CLTV36's youngbloods. He commenced his media journey as a researcher and production assistant during the pandemic, showcasing unwavering dedication and adaptability. Recognizing his mettle, JM earned a well-deserved promotion to the role of reporter. Now, armed with credible and timely news, he's all set to serve the Kapampangan viewers of CLTV36 in Pampanga and beyond with relevant information. With an ethical approach to journalism and genuine empathy, JM aims to make a profound impact, empowering audiences with the news they need to thrive.

JM’s impactful reporting covers a spectrum of narratives. He highlighted the Hacienda Tinang farmers’ struggle, capturing their pivotal land tilling activity that led to arrests. Following their journey to justice underscored his commitment. In another instance, he sensitively covered the 2022 Libad Festival Tragedy, where two devotees were electrocuted during the fluvial procession in Apalit. JM's dedication to narrating stories with depth and compassion solidifies his role as a storyteller who both informs and empathizes with his audience.

Liana Canilao's passion for journalism began during her junior high school years as a campus journalist. At Holy Angel University, she flourished as a news writer for “The Nexus,” the school's esteemed publication.
During her college journey, Liana sought practical experience in the media industry through an internship with CLTV36. Her exceptional performance impressed her mentors and led to her being absorbed as a production assistant in the News Department, providing invaluable insights into the workings of a professional news team.
Transitioning to become the host of Trip, Treat at Gimik, Liana engaged audiences with her magnetic on-screen presence. However, her foundation as a reporter was equally significant, and during her time in that role, she covered a significant special report on mental health issues. Through her reporting, she broke down stigma and advocated for support and understanding on this important topic.

Jenna embarked on her media career journey as a writer at the Pampanga Information Office. During her time at CLTV36, she forged a notable path, showcasing her prowess as a producer for the KBP award-winning public affairs program "So to Speak," hosted by Sonia P. Soto. Additionally, Jenna held a prominent role as the primary anchor for the Kapampangan-language news program "Balen at Balita." Beyond her skillful hosting on multiple CLTV36 programs, she played a pivotal part in co-producing a variety of magazine talk shows, including "Daily Chikahan," "Tatak CL," and "Negotalk." She also contributed to the captivating culinary exploration of "Belly Good," hosted by Hans Lee.

Jenifer embarked on her journey as a media professional by first starting as production assistant for CLTV36's flagship news program, CLTV36 Balitaan. Through her unwavering commitment and remarkable skills, she swiftly ascended the ranks to become a proficient news reporter. Eager to achieve even greater heights, she seized the opportunity to audition for a coveted role—the position of a news anchor at CLTV36. Her outstanding performance in this role earned her a well-deserved nomination at the prestigious KBP Awards, a testament to her exceptional anchoring prowess.

After a brief sabbatical, Jenifer's enduring passion for journalism beckoned her back to CLTV36. Her tenure, spanning more than a decade, was marked by a multitude of accomplishments. She not only played a pivotal role in producing impactful documentaries and special reports but also took the helm of various public affairs programs. Noteworthy among them was "Dapat All: Human Rights for All," a collaboration with the Task Force Detainees of the Philippines, which found its platform on CLTV36.

Jenifer’s influence extended beyond traditional news reporting, as she lent her presence and expertise to a diverse range of shows. From her co-hosting role on the lively magazine program "Trip, Treat at Gimik" to her contributions to the informative "HB" news program and "TopPick," she demonstrated her versatility as a broadcast journalist. Eventually, she gracefully entrusted the responsibilities of these roles to her capable colleague, Jhoedie Mercado.

However, Jenifer's talents extended beyond the boundaries of broadcast journalism. She showcased her musical gifts as an accomplished singer, making significant contributions to albums by Kapampangan musicians and composers, thus adding a melodious dimension to her already impressive creative repertoire.