Keeping Filipinos curious every week

Although a journalist is expected to be curious at all times — hence the attribute of “having the nose for news” — not all journalists are given the chance to have a program where they can join their viewers in the journey to discover more about the Filipino culture.  

This is why veteran broadcast journalists Susan Enriquez and Cesar Apolinario consider themselves lucky. For half a decade now, I Juander — their show on GMA News TV — continues to give them the opportunity to share with the public things about our identity as Filipinos.

“While most shows deliver mind-boggling and hard-hitting issues and stories, I Juander paints a different picture,” says Cesar, adding that “these are images that speak more about our rich culture; that is why these are worth watching.” 

Each episode of I Juander opens doors to new discoveries about Filipino life, answering random questions such as why Pinoys are so much into social media, or if Pinoys still believe in albularyo, or why lechon is a staple during celebrations.

“It is fun that the show is all about being a Filipino. It touches topics from food, travel and history, and in a way we help make up for whatever is lacking in the public’s knowledge about the Philippine history,” shares Susan.

The program has proven that no idea is so small and that no question is so mundane. Everything around us is a reflection of our identity and culture. In fact, for Cesar and Susan, the show helped them become more open-minded and creative.

As part of its fifth anniversary celebration this month, I Juander takes viewers to the birthplace of Christianity — Israel — a place many Filipinos dream of visiting.

“Visiting Israel was spiritually enriching and nourishing,” reveals Susan. “Being a Christian, it’s nice to see the place that is significant to our faith,” she says. This is why she encourages the public to go there as well if they can. 

Going to Israel was actually one of Cesar’s dreams. “This is a place we read in the Bible, but we were privileged to explore the places where Jesus Christ walked. It was really an unforgettable experience that we would like to share to our viewers,” he adds.

Like any other show, I Juander has its ups and downs. In the beginning, it was a challenge to have both Cesar and Susan in a show together. Both had their hands full with their reportorial work. They gather news stories five times a week. Susan does Unang Hirit in the morning and hosts a show in DZBB every day.

“It was really exhausting and at the same time challenging. Everyone worked hard to adjust to the format and the demands of the program. Back then, most of our staff and crew were new, some were even fresh graduates,” recalls Cesar.

But soon enough, they got the groove. They were also able to form a unique identity for the program. Now, they continue to come up with fresh ideas to keep I Juander from getting old.

Through the years, I Juander has been reaping awards both here and abroad. The show earned a citation and a silver medal from the US International Film and Video Festival in 2013 and 2015, respectively, for the episodes, Why is the lechon the centerpiece of every Filipino celebration? and How far will you go in the name of education?.

As I Juander continues to dish out stories about the Filipino identity, Susan and Cesar hope the public remains as curious they are.

“It’s good that fans also suggest topics they want us to feature. It only means they are looking forward to what the show will dig up about the topics,” says Susan.

Indeed, it is important never to stop being curious, especially if it is about our identity as Filipinos we want to learn about.

I Juander airs Wednesday nights at 8 on GMA News TV.