The Center offers fellowships for investigative reportage to full-time reporters, freelance journalists and academics. Their reports are syndicated in major Philippine newspapers and magazines or aired in broadcast stations. Reports by fellows who are staff reporters are published or aired exclusively by the agencies they work for.
PCIJ stories make an impact. Well-researched and well-documented, these reports have contributed to a deeper understanding of raging issues, from politics to the environment, from health and business to women and the military. Some of these reports have prodded government action on issues like corruption, public accountability and environmental protection.
Applicants for investigative reporting fellowships are required to submit a written proposal on the project they wish to undertake. The proposal should contain the following information: the rationale for the project; the research methodology the proponent intends to use; an estimate of expenses, including out-of-town travel, that the writer will incur; and a timetable.
The Center’s board of editors evaluates proposals based on their timeliness, impact and relevance. The proponent’s competence and integrity as a journalist are also considered.
PCIJ shoulders travel and research expenses, and in some instances, also video or radio production costs. The Center also pays writer’s and director’s fees. It can extend funding of as much as P30,000 for each project proponent. In very exceptional circumstances, it can provide as much as P50,000, excluding production costs. Research and editorial support, including editorial supervision, will be provided by the Center. Proponents are required to report regularly to PCIJ.
The Center accepts proposals for fellowships on the following areas of concern: democratization, economic reform, environment, local governance, women, poverty and development, government and leadership, politics and power, the administration of justice, agriculture and agrarian reform, human rights, the military, insurgency, mass media and education.