Media Practitioners covering the Bangsamoro Organic Law plebiscite : a phenomenology

Abstract

This phenomenological study is aimed to discover the role of media practitioners in the Bangsamoro Organic Law Plebiscite News Coverage. The study utilized a qualitative research design using the phenomenological approach through in-depth interview guide with ten media practitioners who covered the Plebiscite from different media outlets from selected key cities in Mindanao chosen through purposeful homogenous sampling. Thematic content analytic process of Creswell (2014) was used as a data analysis tool. The results showed that the role of media practitioners during the Bangsamoro Organic Law Plebiscite were unprejudiced reporting, transparency, and empowering people with right information. They also discussed the challenges, such as identifying the right sources, transportation difficulties, security risks, language barriers, and meeting audience expectations. Moreover, being persistent and focused, devising careful plans and positive thinking made them cope with the challenges of the Plebiscite coverage. Lastly, they shared insights, such as upholding the truth, the importance of community in decision making, maintaining respect, strengthening awareness and understanding about the Bangsamoro Organic Law, and the importance of media relationships to the people and the community. The ten media practitioners shared their relevant experiences of ensuring objectivity and impartially in the conduct of covering the Plebiscite, along with the risks and challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights. Moreover, the results showed how a media's role as a "watchdog," when conducted professionally, empower citizens in the society. Keywords: media coverage, Bangsamoro Organic Law Plebiscite, media practitioners, roles, phenomenology, Philippines