In Contemporary Times: Mastering Opinion Writing Despite Challenges

The function of the opinion writer has grown in importance in a society where information is abundant and views are shared instantly. Opinion writing is a dynamic art form that changes viewpoints, ignites discussions, and affects the fundamental fabric of public discourse. It is not only a reflection of one's personal beliefs but mostly the viewpoints of the whole editorial board that aims to persuade the general public. Embracing the power of words and ideas is the first step toward being a good opinion writer.

Writing whether in alternative or dominant media, opinion and editorial pieces are commonly utilized to highlight current events which are mostly political. News websites, newspapers, journals, and other forms are being utilized for a faster spread of ideas and discourse. But oftentimes, opinion writers do more than just call attention to the issue—they voice their opinion and urge readers to take action – especially in the context of the Philippines.

Being a columnist in the Philippines is a big responsibility towards serving the masses. According to Quisumbing and Santos (2022), the Philippines still ranks among the deadliest countries in the world for journalists, according to a global watchdog that looked into the rates of unsolved journalist killings across the globe in the past year.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported that the Philippines ranked seventh in the world for journalistic safety, after war-torn nations like Afghanistan, South Sudan, Somalia, Syria, and Iraq. When Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was elected president, various groups raised the alarm about a possible decline of press freedom in the country, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ).

Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of any democracy. Similar to the Philippines, everyone's right to free speech is protected by the law. Nevertheless, in addition to these impending difficulties facing the nation's critical writers, journalists have recently been red-tagged and murdered while working in the industry. Attacks are being directed at media institutions and workers.

But despite all of these odds, Filipino Journalists are persevering to be a vanguard of truth and the fourth estate in the country. Especially those who assert their power through writing editorial and opinion pieces. They continue to challenge the status quo amidst challenging times. Consequently, opinion writers, editorial writers, and columnists are doing their best to be effective in their field.

They acquire ethics, professionalism, standards, and guides to better writing. While passion is a driving force in opinion writing, they balance it with objectivity. Acknowledge your biases, and strive to present a fair and well-rounded view of the subject. This balance not only enhances your credibility but also opens the door to a more diverse readership.

According to Pawar (2023), the first step in crafting a compelling editorial opinion essay is to clearly define this argument. The writer should next take into account the groups they hope to influence as well as their objectives for writing the article. Their response to these questions will form their argument.

A skilled opinion writer is aware of their readership. By identifying their target audience, they may adjust their language, tone, and writing style to effectively connect with their readers. When speaking to a specific group of people or the general public, take into account their interests, worries, and degree of acquaintance with the subject.

In addition to this, articles must be anchored in thorough research. To substantiate your arguments and enhance your credibility, delve into a variety of reputable sources. Verify facts, cross-reference information, and seek a well-rounded understanding of the topic. The depth of your research will be reflected in the strength of your arguments.

According to Murudkar (2021), opinion articles are usually around 2000-3000 words and have an accompanying short abstract of about 150-300 words. It may have a minimum of 5 to 10 references and one or two tables or figures at the maximum. You are not writing a news report showing the existence of a problem. The article is your opinion on the issue. So feel free to offer recommendations or solutions that can solve the problem that you are highlighting stated by Jha (2018).

When columnists think about the implications of their views and how they might affect their readers, ethics and epistemology are entwined. Weighing the knowledge they provide's ethical implications and possible effects on public discourse is an epistemological difficulty.

Columnists could experience pressure to accommodate their readers' prejudices and preferences. How to strike a balance between the obligation to provide educated and well-reasoned perspectives and the necessity of audience participation is the epistemological question.

However, prejudice and bias can be avoided by obtaining an objective way of journalism. Writing an opinion piece without prejudice or bias is essential to upholding journalistic ethics and promoting frank, informed discussion.

Writers should recognize and acknowledge their own biases. Everyone has biases, and being aware of them is the first step toward mitigating their impact on their writing. Secondly, base the writer’s opinions on thorough research from diverse and reputable sources. Consider multiple perspectives and consult a variety of viewpoints to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the issue.

Above all of these, especially nowadays, with information permeating every aspect of our lives, it's more important than ever to be able to express strong thoughts. Opinion writing provides a forum for discussion, acquire intellect information, and persuasion, acting as a link between ideas and people. This essay seeks to offer a thorough manual on the craft of opinion writing, highlighting the significance of investigation, compassion, and moral considerations.

Becoming an effective opinion writer requires a combination of skills, including research, clarity, empathy, and ethical considerations. By understanding your audience, crafting compelling arguments, and fostering a connection with your readers, you can contribute meaningfully to public discourse. Remember that opinion writing is both an art and a skill—one that evolves with every word you pen.

By incorporating these qualities into their writing, opinion writers can create pieces that resonate with readers, contribute to informed discussions, and leave a lasting impact on the audience and the community where you serve.