The STAR columnist Ron Jabal has been named a finalist for Best Opinion Column at the 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) for his business column ‘Reputation,’ which explores the evolving intersections of trust, leadership and communication in a fast-changing business environment.
Now in its 47th year, the CMMA honors individuals and organizations that embody truth, integrity, and compassion in communication. It remains one of the country’s most respected institutions recognizing excellence in journalism, broadcasting, and public communication that inspires faith, reflection and responsible citizenship.
This marks Jabal’s second consecutive CMMA finalist citation, following his 2024 recognition for ‘Shared Values,’ his BusinessWorld column that focuses on ethics, leadership, sustainability and moral accountability. BusinessWorld and The STAR both belong to the PhilStar Media Group.
The back-to-back honors highlight his growing influence as a columnist whose writing bridges conscience, communication, and civic responsibility in an era defined by polarization and digital disruption.
In ‘Reputation,’ Jabal examines how individuals, corporations and governments build, sustain, or damage public trust amid the relentless scrutiny of the digital age.
Jabal’s essays cover diverse subjects, from corporate ethics, governance, and sustainability to artificial intelligence and the moral dimensions of leadership and brand stewardship, offering readers an informed yet accessible take on issues that shape reputations in modern society.
‘Reputation is not merely about perception or publicity,’ Jabal said. ‘It is about authenticity, integrity, and moral consistency. True reputation is not built in moments of triumph but tested in times of doubt and difficulty. Ultimately, reputation is our license to operate’.
Through ‘Reputation,’ Jabal has established a distinctive voice that challenges readers to view reputation not just as image, but as the lived expression of values, character and credibility.
‘Being recognized again by the CMMA is deeply humbling,’ Jabal said. ‘It reaffirms that thought leadership when anchored on ethics, empathy, and evidence continues to play a vital role in shaping how societies think and act.’