By Genalyn Evangelista
MANILA—During Saturday’s first day of the Women’s Month special radio broadcast “Siklab Alakdan” of Centro Escolar University (CEU) Malolos in Campus Hour of Radio Veritas 846 FM, Carmela Bautista Reyes-Estrope, an experienced journalist, shared insights about her life and career.
Her professional journey, shaped by a family legacy of storytelling and a deep commitment to journalism, serves as an inspiration for generations to come.
Her grandfather, Emilio Bautista, a reporter for the old defunct Manila Times during the American and Japanese eras, was the considered “Dean of Correspondents” in the Philippines, amongst the staunchest pioneers of journalism in his time. Her father, Rodrigo “Rod” M. Reyes, trained by her grandfather, became a reporter for the People’s Journal, and her mother, Gloria Sarmiento Bautista-Reyes, a teacher, instilled in her a deep appreciation for education and a spirit of compassion.
Journalist grandpa, pa(father) and educator mother
This lineage of journalists and educators shaped Estrope’s life, culminating in her own successful career in media.
Estrope’s career has spanned several prominent publications. She was a part of the Manila Standard from 1993 to 1998, and since 1998, she has been a correspondent for the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
Beyond her work as a journalist, she has also shared her expertise as a part-time instructor in journalism at Bulacan State University-Main Campus from 2000 to 2012.
Her similar utmost commitment to her profession extends beyond the newsroom and the classrooms. She has served as president of the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) from 2021 to 2023 and is currently the president of the Central Luzon Media Citizen-Council. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of NEWSCORE, a testament to her strong leadership and dedication to journalistic excellence.
Estrope is a mother to her only child, Anton Luis Reyes Catindig, who serves as her strength and inspiration and a wife to her husband, former police officer Samuel Tanghal Estrope.
Estrope has also attended numerous seminars, conferences, and cultural activities both local and international, furthering her knowledge and experience in the field.
Her journey, however, wasn’t simply a matter of following in her family’s footsteps. Estrope, a woman with a passion for writing and a strong voice, found her own path within the world of journalism.
Her words, often reflecting her own personal experiences and insights, resonate with a powerful message of empowerment. In her interview, she reflected on the legacy of women in society and their role as “guiding lights of Filipino families and the society”.
This powerful statement underscores her belief in women’s enduring influence, both as educators and as guiding forces in society.
CEU founders, Filipino women empowerment in the 20th century
“Women were the first to establish our university (CEU), which became a successful institution,” she said. “The role or campaign of women, traces back to our roots, our CEU founders, established as an educational institution in our country. CEU is now about 100 years old or more. So that was a contribution of women. And without going too far, in our homes, it’s said that the light is the mothers. So in our society, the women’s role is the same. They are also the light. They carry the light for a more righteous path or steps in our lives, our society, our families, and everywhere women are present.”
“They are not just the light, but many times, they themselves carry the sword in different battles in their lives, while carrying the light, they are the ones who ride the horse and lead the war”. This metaphor speaks to the multifaceted nature of women’s roles, their ability to lead with both strength and grace, embodying both nurturing and powerful aspects.
Role model mother
As a woman and in honouring the woman which she valued for moulding her character, she shares the words of her mother: “‘Make your heart bigger, it should be as big as a fan, the heart-shaped native Filipino fan. She always reminds me of this and demonstrates to me how big my heart should be, full of love”.
When asked about the challenges women face and how they should remain courageous enough to defend themselves in times they needed to, she shared a compelling image which was also influenced by her mother. “Never allow yourself to be treated less or be oppressed. Always fight and defend yourself especially when you are right and yet you are senselessly being undermined”.
The golden rules
This sentiment highlights the importance of compassion, love, and the ability to extend kindness to others, qualities that form the bedrock of a strong and inspiring individual.
Estrope’s own advice to young women reflects the wisdom she has gleaned from her family and her experiences. “Always listen to your parents,” she advises. “Parents always know what’s best. Never stray from their guidance, from the path they lay down for you, because they are the ones paving the way, a clear path for you to follow. As I said before, they are the light of the home. Listen to them, because they will never give you ill advice. And at the same time, believe in yourself, work hard for what you believe in, strive to be good and better. And of course, no one is perfect, but as long as you strive, you listen, you place love in your heart in everything that you do. And as they say, don’t forget to ask for God’s love and graces, ask for guidance and pray because you won’t go astray when you hold onto God and your parents.”
This powerful combination of advice — to honor family, pursue your dreams, and seek guidance — exemplifies Estrope’s belief in a holistic approach to life, where strength, compassion, and faith intertwine.
Carmela Bautista Reyes-Estrope’s journey, shaped by family, experience, and her own indomitable spirit, stands as a testament to the enduring power of women. She embodies the legacy of her family, the strength of her convictions, and the unwavering belief that women are indeed the light, guiding our society towards a brighter future. She embodies the spirit of proving yourself “in a sweet manner,” a testament to her own journey of strength and grace.
