Jessica Soho Bags PeopleAsia's 'People of the Year 2026' Award After Four Decades of Truth-Telling

After 40 years of chasing stories, breaking news, and holding the powerful accountable, Jessica Soho has been named one of PeopleAsia Magazine's 'People of the Year 2026' — and honestly, it's hard to think of anyone who deserves it more.

PeopleAsia described this year's honorees as "beacons of hope who inspire others to do not what is easy, but what is right." The veteran Kapuso journalist was specifically recognized in the media category for her decades of groundbreaking work in broadcast journalism — from investigative pieces to her wildly popular Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) show.

In an interview with Balitanghali, Jessica was characteristically humble about the recognition. "Salamat! But it's also humbling kasi this adds more pressure sa trabaho to keep doing the best that you can," she said. "Mahirap na nga as it is, tapos with all of these recognitions, parang nadadagdagan din 'yung responsibilidad ko."

But don't think she's slowing down. Jessica made it clear she still has a fire in her belly, saying there are still plenty of issues that need to be exposed. "Marami pa tayong dapat ibunyag siguro at naghihintay pa rin ang taumbayan ng mga sagot sa napakaraming mga tanong nila," she said. She also took a swipe at corruption: "Kailangan na rin ma-address 'yung mga galit ng bayan dito sa mga nangyayari kasi humihirap ang buhay, pero dumadami rin 'yung mga kurakot."

Jessica reminded her fellow journalists to keep their values intact: "Importante pa rin, ang laban pa rin ay sa content, pagalingan pa rin ng content." The award adds to her already impressive collection of accolades — she was previously named among Tatler Asia's Most Influential and continues to be the Philippines' most-awarded broadcast journalist. Catch KMJS every Sunday night on GMA.

Source: GMA Entertainment