Former BBC anchor Rico Hizon joining CNN Philippines

First on MNP: International journalist Rico Hizon is the newest member of the CNN Philippines family.

In an internal memo obtained by Media Newser Philippines Friday, CNN Philippines President Armie Jarin-Bennett announced that Hizon will be joining the local CNN station as Senior Anchor and Director for News Content Development. His first day is on Monday, March 30th.

“While our brave front liners are protecting and saving lives, we in media also have a vital role in response to COVID-19. We face a different battle. We have to fight the rumors and misinformation. We have to keep spreading the facts, to empower people with information they need and trust. And what better time to have a respected, award-wining news anchor join our team. I’m delighted to let you know that Rico Hizon will be joining us starting Monday, March 30th, as Senior Anchor and Director for News Content Development,” Jarin-Bennett wrote in the memo.

As the network continues its coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hizon will also take over the 9PM slot, the memo notes, adding that he will — like other CNN Philippines anchors — be reporting from its virtual newsroom.

Hizon, now 54, spent 17 years in Singapore as an anchor at BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation), covering national, financial and business news.

Prior to this, he worked at CNBC Hong Kong as anchor of the morning edition of CNBC Today, Squawk Box, Market Watch and Power Lunch.

Previously, Hizon served as an anchor at GMA News, working on programs such as GMA Network News and GMA News Live.