My kindergarten teacher once told my mother I would embellish stories in class. She said I over exaggerated and suggested my mother teach me not to "fib." My mother asked her to give an example of the stories I would tell. Lo and behold the stories I shared were true as confirmed by my mother. Turns out, I just loved to tell stories and was animated in doing so, and perhaps, my teacher just didn't know what to make of the little girl who shared them in class with such enthusiasm. Sharing stories and informing the community is truly an honor and privilege. I’m thankful my job allows me to practice my passion.
Before becoming a reporter, I began my news journey behind the scenes. In 2006 I interned, wrote and produced at local San Diego ABC affiliate, KGTV. I continued on to KUSI and KSWB Fox 5, as a morning and weekend producer. Ultimately I left San Diego to sign on as a general assignment reporter at KREX News Channel 5 in Grand Junction, Colorado. I shot, edited and produced my own stories. While in Grand Junction I had the privilege of covering President Barack Obama's visit to the city. Upon my return to San Diego, I worked as an anchor/reporter for U-T TV. There I had the privilege of launching its very first UT San Diego morning newscast. I also had the incredible experience of traveling to the Philippines to report on recovery efforts following the destruction of Typhoon Haiyan.
But as luck would have it I returned to KSWB Fox 5 for a "second tour," but this time as a reporter.
I am a Filipina-American born in Subic Bay, Philippines. I'm what you call a “third culture kid” having lived overseas most of my life including Japan, Singapore and Guam because of my father’s U.S. military ties. After graduating high school in Singapore, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Communication from the University of California, San Diego. I am also active in the Filipino-American community with hosting events such as "For The Love of The Philippines" a televised San Diego Benefit for Typhoon Haiyan victims, the Miss Philippines California Pageant and the Fil-Am Festival in San Diego.
Lastly, I'm a true “foodie” at heart. I love to eat!
What keeps me going? Faith in God. Family. Friends.
If I wasn’t in TV news, I would… definitely be traveling. Since I moved so often as I child, I typically get an itch to up and leave and explore different cultures.
What is something no one knows about me? I prefer "oldies," jazz and R&B over any other genre of music. I'll also always choose a tropical destination over anywhere else in the world.
If I had free time, I would… Travel, read, cook and eat more!
Dinner for 5 who’s invited? My late grandfather Cenon Audencial, Pope Francis, the Dalai Lama, Oprah and my mom (since she would never forgive me for not inviting her to such an exclusive dinner!)
