TV5 strengthens its presence in the field of News and Public Affairs.

A year and a half after its initial airing, Paolo Bediones’ USI (Under Special Investigation) bagged the Best Special Event Coverage award for its “Tsunami” episode in the recently concluded 33rd Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA). Public Atorni, another TV5 public affairs program, also received a special citation for Best Public Service Program.

A weekly public affairs program that tackles society’s most pressing issues, USI offers an in-depth look on stories that affect the lives of Filipinos. Tsunami, the episode that made USI clinch the award, is the show’s coverage of the disaster that hit Japan earlier this year. It was an eye-opening experience for Paolo Bediones, who celebrated his birthday in Japan during his Tsunami coverage. According to him, he fears the grave threat such phenomenon poses should it hit the Philippines.

This is the second award USI has received after winning last year’s KBP Golden Dove Award for Best Documentary Program.
Public Atorni, on the other hand, helps underprivileged Filipinos in their small claims and pending court cases through mediation. As the show’s host Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) chief Atty. Percida Acosta hears both sides and explains the legal perspectives on the issue/s raised. She then asks both party “Asunot o Areglo?” (to Sue or to Settle). If they pick areglo, both parties will have to compromise and resolve the issue.

USI airs every Sunday at 10:00pm while Public Atorni airs every Thursday after Aksyon Journalismo on TV5.