When I began my career as a Radio Announcer at Associate Broadcasting Company - ABC5 in 1997, I had no idea where the road would lead me. All I knew was that I loved being on the airwaves, sharing stories, and connecting with listeners. Fast forward to today, and I’m the Director of Ad & Promo at Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC), overseeing major campaigns and leading a talented team in one of the country’s most prominent media organizations. My journey has been anything but linear, but each step has been integral to my growth, both professionally and personally.
Starting with a Voice
My early days in radio were filled with excitement and learning. As a Radio Announcer, I honed my skills in communication, time management, and audience engagement. It was a dynamic environment, where every day brought new challenges, whether it was hitting the right tone during a broadcast or keeping up with the fast-paced nature of live radio. This foundation laid the groundwork for my transition into promotions, where I found a new way to connect with audiences—this time, through creative marketing strategies.
Climbing the Ranks at MBC
In 2000, I joined Manila Broadcasting Company as a Network Promotions Supervisor. This role was my first significant foray into the world of advertising and promotions, and it was here that I began to understand the power of strategic communication and branding. Over the next eight years, I learned how to create compelling campaigns that resonated with audiences, drove engagement, and boosted the company’s profile.
The next logical step in my career was to take on more responsibility, and in 2008, I became the Division Head of the Ad & Promo Division at Star Parks Corporation. This role challenged me to think bigger and more strategically, as I was now responsible for overseeing the entire promotional strategy of a large organization. It was a period of intense learning, where I refined my leadership skills and developed a deeper understanding of the industry.
The Entrepreneurial Leap
While my corporate career was thriving, I also felt a pull towards entrepreneurship. In 2010, I founded www.JohnCarlGalang.com, a platform where I could channel my creative energy into making marketing videos. This venture allowed me to explore new aspects of media and promotions, from video production to digital marketing. Running my own business has been incredibly rewarding, offering me the freedom to innovate and experiment with new ideas.
Leadership at MBC
Returning to MBC in 2019 as the Ad & Promo Manager was a full-circle moment for me. I was stepping back into a company that had shaped my early career, but this time, with a wealth of experience and knowledge to bring to the table.
In April 2022, I was promoted to Director of Ad & Promo, a position that has allowed me to take on even greater challenges. Leading the department, I’m responsible for crafting and executing high-impact campaigns that align with MBC’s vision and goals. Every day, I draw on my past experiences—whether it’s the creativity I honed as a radio announcer, the strategic thinking I developed at Star Parks, or the entrepreneurial mindset I cultivated through my own business.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back, my journey from an entry-level radio announcer to a leadership position in one of the Philippines’ top media companies has been marked by continuous learning, adaptability, and a passion for communication. Each role I’ve held has taught me something valuable, and I’ve carried those lessons with me, shaping my approach to leadership and strategy.
As I continue to navigate my career, I’m excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether it’s leading a team, creating groundbreaking campaigns, or exploring new ventures, I remain committed to growth and innovation. My story is far from over, and I look forward to the next chapter in this ever-evolving journey.