KEY POINTS
- Malou Logan was the first Executive Producer of SBS Filipino radio program in 1991.
- She tackled migrant stories and issues, and produced radio dramas.
- She emphasises that connection with listeners remains the heart of radio.
The beginning of Filipino broadcasting at SBS
In 1991, a young and eager Malou Logan sat in the SBS studio for the very first time. It was the dawn of a new era for Filipino voices in Australia, and she was at the heart of it.
"I was thrilled and excited. I kept thinking- what am I going to do today? How do I prepare?"
That day marked the launch of SBS's first-ever Filipino radio program, with Malou Logan- a former activist in the Philippines and a graduate of Anthropology with a master's in Southeast Asian Studies appointed as its first Executive Producer in Melbourne.
At the time, the Filipino program aired twice a week from a modest studio at the Ballet Centre, where Malou shared a workspace with the Arabic program.
"I was excited about the multiculturalism in SBS. I became good friends with the other broadcasters. We’d chat and exchange ideas about our shows.”
Pioneering SBS Filipino broadcast, Malou Logan at the studio decades after launching the program. Credit: SBS
Back to where it all began
Fast forward to today, as SBS celebrates its 50th anniversary, Malou finds herself back in the studio but this time in a vastly different setting.
"The area is so modern, innovative and progressive.”
Reflecting on the early days, Malou recalls the meticulous work that went into each broadcast.
"We had to research, read extensively, and even connect with sources from the Philippines," she explains.
Her dedication to delivering insightful content led her to cover crucial topics, including the challenges migrants faced in Australia, such as domestic violence.
I was part of a women’s team that produced programs addressing these issues. We each had roles- one would write, another would prepare scripts, and someone else would produce.
Radio dramas that captured hearts
One of Malou’s proudest achievements at SBS was her work on radio drama series.
"The listeners loved it. It was heartwarming to know that people were engaged and looked forward to it."
Stories worth remembering
Over the years, she has interviewed countless personalities, including former Philippine President Fidel Ramos.
"That was memorable. I challenged him on the rice crisis in the Philippines, and though he answered indirectly, it was an important conversation."
Despite all the changes in media and technology, Malou believes that the essence of radio remains the same: connection.
What makes me smile the most is talking to my listeners. With the talk back segment, I get to interact with them. It shows that people are truly listening and that you’re not just speaking into a microphone.
Malou Logan with today’s SBS team, reflecting on the legacy of Filipino-Australian broadcasting. Credit: SBS
Advice for aspiring broadcasters
When asked for advice for aspiring broadcasters, she emphasises preparation and passion.
"Read a lot. Research extensively. Always think- what can I present that will engage and educate people?"
As she concludes her return to SBS, Malou once again shares her iconic closing spiel- words that have resonated with her listeners for years:
“Kung hindi ka kikilos, sino ang kikilos? Kung hindi ka kikibo, sino ang kikibo? Kung hindi ngayon? Kailan pa?”
A powerful reminder that every voice matters and that change begins with action.
📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino
🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.
📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.
