Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 7) — CNN Philippines’ senior anchor Rico Hizon bagged the Best Factual Presenter award at the prestigious Asian Academy Creative Awards (AACA) in Singapore on Thursday.
He was declared grand winner of the category, besting six other news presenters from Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Singapore, and Taiwan who vied for the award.
Hizon said he considers the recognition as the “most prestigious” and the biggest for him this year.
He added that it was a dream come true to clinch the “Golden Goddess” statuette in his 35 years in broadcast journalism.
“I was totally shocked because I am really up against the best of the best in Asia,” Hizon said. “I would like to dedicate this award to all journalists in Asia who report balanced, unbiased, and fair news and real news.”
He said his latest award puts “a lot more pressure” on him, as a journalist, and on CNN Philippines to always deliver factual news.
“It is our responsibility to always report the truth and deliver the truth to our viewers across the country, around the world whoever watches us, and even on social media,” the seasoned broadcaster said.
Hizon thanked the men and women of CNN Philippines and his family for their support.
“Mabuhay ang Pilipinas, mabuhay ang CNN Philippines, mabuhay ang CNN International, mabuhay ang Asian Academy Creative Awards!” he exclaimed during his acceptance speech.
The AACA’s Best Factual Presenter award honors the “outstanding presenting skills of programming and news,” pooled from the region’s best news and current affairs anchors.
The AACA is an annual event presented every December as part of the Singapore Media Festival, recognizing creative excellence across 17 nations in the Asia-Pacific.
Hizon anchors CNN Philippines’ flagship late-night news program “The Final Word.” In 2020, the AACA named the show as “Best News Programme” in the Philippines.
In November, the Harvard Business School Owner/President Management (OPM) Club recognized Hizon for his contribution to Philippine journalism, describing him as “one of the phenomenal voices making the Filipino proud.”
“The Final Word” was nominated for Best News Program and Hizon as Best News Presenter or Anchor at the 28th Asian Television Awards. The ceremony will be held in January in Vietnam.
