Malaya Insights: From the eyes of its people

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The name Malaya is derived from the Filipino word meaning “free.” Founded in 1981 by Jose Burgos, Jr., the publication entered a new era in 1983 when Amado P. Macasaet, a veteran journalist and business editor of Malaya, became its owner. Under his leadership, the business section evolved into Malaya Business Insight, a distinct section placed before the main newspaper.

Today, Malaya Business Insight is led by his son, Allen Michael A. Macasaet, alongside his children Maria Monica Anne F. Macasaet and Antonio Alberto F. Macasaet. The current management is focused on modernizing the national broadsheet to better serve its subscribers, advertisers, and the general public.

On January 17, 2025, Malaya celebrated its 42nd anniversary—a meaningful occasion to reflect on its rich history and express gratitude for overcoming the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic while continuing its legacy of trusted journalism.

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The celebration honored not only the publication’s enduring legacy but also the dedicated people behind it—the employees whose hard work has been instrumental to its success. Their stories, tributes, recognition, and aspirations for the future of Malaya serve as a testament to the broadsheet’s resilience and enduring impact.

Through the years,

Ang Pahayagang Malaya, was founded by Jose Burgos Jr. in 1981, a Tagalog newspaper. After the military raid in 1982, We Forum its sister publication, founder Jose Burgos Jr., relaunched Ang Pahayagang Malaya as an English newspaper. From a weekly to a daily publication, Malaya became a symbol of resilience.
I’ve worked with some of the country’s best journalists and photographers. I hope the new generation of leaders carries on Malaya’s legacy with teamwork as their guiding principle. – Che Francisco


It was 1983

While on my way to enroll at the CPA Review Center (CPAR), the former owners of Malaya newspaper, Mr. and Mrs. Burgos, told me they needed a clerk and offered me the job. At first, I was undecided. But after much contemplation, I accepted the position, foregoing my review. I was hired as a circulation assistant/accounting clerk, working on a 24/7 stay-in basis with good compensation.

In 1987, under the new management of Mr. Amado P. Macasaet, they created the Credit & Collection and Billing Section, and I was tasked to head both.

In the years between, I was designated, through a Board Resolution, as the company’s attorney-in-fact, attending court hearings on collection cases with guidance from our outhouse counsel, Atty. Amorsolo V. Camara.

Upon the retirement of our Marketing Director, Ms. Remy Bicomong, Mr. Macasaet directed me to take over the position. Although I initially refused, he issued a memo designating me as the Advertising Department In-Charge. I also became the official representative to media associations such as PPI, UPMG-CRB, and CMAP. The “superactive na binibini.”

While managing several positions, I was able to motivate the Account Executives to exceed 100% of their quotas, even though sales wasn’t my cup of tea. – Grace Bernal


I joined Malaya in the late 1990s

I started at our Atlanta Office in Port Area, Manila, as a freelance Account Manager under Mr. Danilo Calnea, who was then Advertising Director. Back then, as a newbie, I focused on special supplements and features for government agency anniversaries, provinces, and prominent personalities. Eventually, I was entrusted with account servicing, which allowed me to interact with our publisher, Amado P. Macasaet (APM).

Though a strict boss, Mr. APM had a heart of gold for his employees. I’ll always remember how he balanced discipline with kindness. – Rey Balabag


I started in 1993

There were two of us who passed the test, but I wasn’t hired immediately. Eventually, I was called back when the other hire left. I’ve had happy times with the Advertising Department, laughing through tough days with my colleagues and supervisors. – Virginia David


Thank you for the Christmas bonuses and gifts. I deeply appreciate these thoughtful gestures over the years. – Ruby Javier


In 1986, I witnessed Malaya’s rise to the top

During the People Power Revolution, circulation soared to over one million daily, although it had to be reduced to half a million due to the high cost of newsprint. Unfortunately, as deadlines slipped and competitors—both broadsheets and tabloids—emerged, circulation began to decline. Some tabloids hit the streets as early as 6 p.m., cashing in on the evening market.

This experience serves as a reminder that even with the best product, timeliness is key. – Jimmy Cantor


I am grateful to Malaya Business Insight

In 2021, I had the opportunity to work with the marketing team during the pandemic. Despite the challenges of lockdowns, some clients remained supportive of our special feature projects. Thanks to teamwork, we were able to pull through. – Jocelyn Morano


The real bonus of working at Malaya

I loved my job, but my fondest memories come from outside of work—those “two-bottle” sessions (rarely just two!) with friends after hours. These moments created lifelong friendships and cherished memories.

I hope Malaya continues to flourish in serving its readers and inspires hope in its employees for brighter days ahead. – Adora Mayo

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I joined in 2014 as a freelance Account Executive

One of my most vivid memories is how I often became the “ice breaker,” ensuring no dull moments. My wish for Malaya is stability in all aspects. – Liza Orbe


Si Sir Jake ay masayahin na tao at mabait, napakabait.

Tulad ng pagbibigay ng pagkain sa amin kung may sobra o kung may ipapabili, di na niya kukunin ang sukli. Makatao si Sir Jake. – Wilmor Legaspi


Mabait sa tauhan si Sir Jake. – Vergel Bacay


Almost 16 years with Malaya

We’re thankful to have been directly hired in 2014 under Ms. Menchie’s leadership. I’ll always remember the team-building events, out-of-town trips, and the annual gift-giving. – Marife Bernardo


26 years and counting

One of my most memorable moments was receiving a certificate of appreciation during Malaya’s 40th anniversary in February 2023. I know I’m not the best, and I’ve made mistakes, but I love my job and plan to continue working here. – Christian Oineza


Through the years, Malaya has shown resilience

From Ondoy’s devastation to the pandemic, we kept moving forward. I’ll never forget the camaraderie during tough times and the family-like celebrations, such as the joint birthdays of Sir Pocholo Romualdez and Sir Jake Macasaet.

My hope is for Malaya to stay true to its values while continuing to work as a family, supporting one another through challenges and triumphs. – Gie Trillana


Salamat, Malaya, sa ilang dekadang pagsasama natin.

Andyan at matibay pa rin tayo. Mabuhay po sa panibagong taon na pagsasama. – Rolly Salvador


Empleyado ng Malaya na nagsimula noong 2004. Malaki ang naitulong ng kompanya sa akin at sa pamilya ko.

Isa sa mga hindi malilimutang karanasan ko ay yung mga nagdaang sakuna gaya ng bagyong Ondoy. Kahit sobrang lakas ng ulan, sinikap kong pumasok para makapagbigay ng balita sa mga mambabasa. Isa pa, noong pandemya, sama-sama pa rin kaming nagtrabaho kahit mahirap ang kalagayan. Dedikasyon sa trabaho ang nakita ko sa lahat.

Sana ay tumagal pa ang Malaya para marami pang matulungan at mabigyan ng trabaho. Maraming salamat, Malaya, sa lahat ng namumuno at empleyado. Mabuhay tayong lahat. God bless! – Rodolfo Versoza


Congratulations to People’s Independent Media and Malaya Business Insight on its 42nd Anniversary! Wishing everyone continued success, growth, and unwavering dedication to delivering quality journalism. Cheers to many more years of excellence and impact! – Jherome Fajardo


Congratulations Malaya Business Insight!

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