New ‘24 Oras’ anchor Emil Sumangil recalls lessons from Mike Enriquez

Emil Sumangil

In joining GMA 7’s flagship newscast “24 Oras” as one of its main anchors, Emil Sumangil knows that he has to fill some big shoes left by the late Mike Enriquez.

“It’s a big responsibility. It will be hard to match, much less surpass [what he has accomplished]. But I will do everything to fulfill my duties using the talents that I have,” Sumangil told the Inquirer in an email interview.

But as he takes on this challenge, Sumangil is reminded of the things he picked up and lessons he learned from Enriquez, who anchored “24 Oras” from its first airing back in 2004 until 2023. “The delivery of news shouldn’t put viewers to sleep—it should be authoritative. That’s important because that’s how you make people listen to you,” he said.

Despite the daunting task at hand, this new development in his career has given Sumangil something to look forward to. He didn’t have second thoughts.

“My family and I are bursting with happiness and joy. When I learned about the news and got offered to [join ‘24 Oras’], I accepted it with an open mind and heart,” he said of the show, which is coanchored by Mel Tiangco and Vicky Morales. “But this privilege also had me contemplating how I could best return the favor,” he said.

Years of experience

Sumangil, a broadcast journalist with 20 years of experience, is best known for his work in the crime beat, as well as his on-the-ground coverage of conflicts and disasters. He has also ventured into public service through the network’s investigative show, “Resibo: Walang Lusot ang May Atraso.”

How does it feel transitioning from field to studio work?

“I have been on the field for 20 years; it has become my second home. Through the years, I have been able to get along and adapt to different people and places. I would still love to go out, as long as the office (GMA Integrated News) allows it, as long as I can still do it,” he said.

Opportunities

But it’s inevitable, Sumangil pointed out, for new doors to open. “Opportunities and privileges—like working in the studio—will come your way. This will urge you to leave the field, and in turn, give others a chance in this profession,” he said.

Sumangil isn’t exactly a stranger to his new responsibilities because his past pinch-hitting stints in “24 Oras” prepared him for them. “It helped me build confidence as I stood in front of the cameras and read the news,” he said.

Tiangco, who coanchored “24 Oras” with Enriquez for 19 years, had nothing but good words for Sumangil.

“Mike and I used to always talk about Emil and we both believed that his talent is ‘24 Oras’-worthy. So, I know Mike is happy that it was Sumangil who took over the position that he had worked so hard for,” Tiangco said in her message to Sumangil.

Sumangil couldn’t be more grateful after hearing such kind words. “I hope to maintain my work ethic and attitude,” he said.