Why Atom chose to move to GMA-7

Atom Araullo sent social media abuzz last week when he announced "the time has come to explore emerging opportunities and challenges." Some speculated about the next move from the reporter, while others wondered why his departure is making headlines.

It's hardly the first time that a journalist switches networks, but there's something about Atom — a graduate of Applied Physics from the University of the Philippines Diliman and an award-winning journalist.

It's not a secret that he has a strong following, and not always for his smarts. He has received plenty of citations and awards for his work as a reporter, but few people in his field have landed in lists like "Most Eligible Bachelors," and not a few magazine covers.

"I find it odd, but I'm not complaining," Atom told GMA News Online in an exclusive interview, referring to the "adoration" he receives from people.

The choice of word conjures an image of a "poon" (Lord) and elicits a chuckle from Atom. "Lalo akong napipilitan at natutulak na patunayan na meron akong kayang ibuga. Kasi kung puro atensyon lang naman... alam mo naman ang fame, it comes and goes," Atom said.

"I think the important lesson for me is that I have to show people that I deserve that kind of trust and that's one of the reasons why I want to continue growing as a journalist."

His documentary on climate change for his previous network earned Atom a Bronze World Medal at the 2017 New York Festivals “World’s Best TV and Films”. During this same competition, GMA made history for winning three Gold World Medals and three finalist certificates.

Atom is currently an Advocate for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in the Philippines, a humanitarian organization mandated to lead the protection of refugees and internally displaced persons.  Atom has also completed shooting legendary director Mike de Leon’s upcoming film Citizen Jake, where he plays the lead role.

Atom told GMA News Online that he feels that he's in a good place to explore emerging media trends and figure out how to use different platforms to tell better stories. "I just felt like I could do all of that in GMA with encouragement and with people whom I consider good mentors like Nessa Valdellon, Howie Severino," he said, adding that there are people behind-the-scenes with whom he's excited to work.

He's also looking forward to learning from GMA News icons Mel Tiangco, Mike Enriquez, and Jessica Soho.

"Jessica Soho, one of the first people na nakausap ko n'ong una akong nagtrabaho sa GMA. I think pinapamunuan pa niya 'yong News Department n'on. Siyempre, I'll never forget that encounter," Atom said.

Now that he has returned, Atom will be taking a literal dive — right into the Philippine seas. His first project with the Kapuso Network will be special report on the country's biodiversity and from there, he'll be joining the acclaimed "i-Witness" team. —JST, GMA News