How Karen Davila’s passion for fashion led to broadcast success

Karen Davila is a living example of the capricious web that fate can create in the quick-paced world of journalism. Speaking during the Rotary Club of Manila's week's 21st weekly Membership Meeting at the Manila Polo Club last Thursday, 7 December, the distinguished broadcast journalist offered insights into her incredible 33-year career.

A twist of fate

"Destiny may actually have another plan," Davila stated as her journey began with a dream of becoming a fashion designer. Yet fate had other plans.

Unable to secure a full scholarship for her dream in New York, she pivoted to communications, driven by a family's financial turmoil during the aftermath of Ninoy Aquino's death.

Despite initial reluctance, a college professor recognized her potential during her Mass Communications studies, setting her on a path she hadn't anticipated. 

Throughout her  college journey, the idea of being on television never crossed her mind. "I took Mass Communications without knowing that this would be where I would shine," she said.

Graduating from UP's College of Mass Communications in 1993, Davila embarked on a journey that would redefine her destiny.

From auditions to primetime

Her career took a diversified turn when she was hired for her first job at GMA-7's "Business Today" following auditions.

After working on "Brigada Siete" and hourly news breaks, Davila's big break came in 1995 when she was hired as the news anchor for GMA's primetime Tagalog newscast, "Saksi."

Subsequently, she experienced training at CNN's Atlanta headquarters in 1996 and contributed to CNN World Report. In 1997, she was named a finalist for Best Environmental Reporter.

A pivotal move led her to ABS-CBN, where she contributed to the shaping of the Philippine broadcast journalism landscape.

Reinventing Journalism in the Digital Age

"I've done it all on television," Davila asserts, underscoring her multifaceted approach to journalism. 

"I've tried it all, done it all. I've never been just a face on television. I really started writing, producing, and going out on the field. I built a track record of doing what needs to be done to build a credible person that comes out on television," she added.

As a result, beyond traditional media, she embraced the digital realm, launching her YouTube channel in May 2021. 

Despite doubting her star power, she garnered 1.71 million subscribers, attributing her success to "journalistic practice" and understanding evolving viewer habits.

Recognizing the changing broadcast media landscape, she adapted content to suit modern attention spans, producing light stories on her channel. This digital reinvention showcased her adaptability and commitment to remaining relevant in an ever-evolving world of media. 

Awards and accolades

Davila's dedication hasn't gone unnoticed. Throughout her career, she received accolades such as a bronze medal from CNN World Report and the grand prize in the UNICEF Child Rights Awards. Her impact resonates globally after being selected in 2010 as a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum.

This year, she added Best News Anchor at the Asian Academy Creative Awards, Most Outstanding Female News Anchor at the fifth Gawad Lasallianeta, and News Anchor of the Year at the fourth VP Choice Awards to her list of achievements. Her influence extends beyond borders, earning her  a Asia's Most Influential PH citation in 2021, 2022 and 2023.