In the realm of voice artistry and news direction, few individuals have made as profound an impact as Godo Hernandez. Known for his versatile talents as a voice dubber and his impressive career as a news program director at ABS-CBN, Godo Hernandez graciously sat down with us to share insights, anecdotes, and invaluable life lessons.
A Remarkable Journey Begins
What led him to embark on such a diverse career path? As a young boy, Godo possessed a unique fascination with mimicking different voices. "Kapag nakakarinig ako ng mga tipong ang sarap gayahin, so ginagaya ko siya," he recalls. He couldn't resist the allure of replicating intriguing vocal tones he encountered. After graduating from college, a phone call from his third cousin, Danny Mandia, sparked the beginning of his dubbing journey. Mandia encouraged him to try voice dubbing, citing the relatively small community at the time and the potential opportunity for Godo to carve his niche.
This innate talent eventually led him to explore the world of voice dubbing, where he collaborated with his colleague Pocholo on numerous projects. Their collaborative efforts included dubbing popular shows like "Remi," "Saber Marionette," and the original "F4." Notably, "F4" was directed by Danny Mandia, the visionary founder of Tagalized cartoons and novelas. Godo's involvement in these projects marked the beginning of a multifaceted career that would see him excel in various roles within the industry.
His dubbing debut arrived with the iconic "Remi," where he played one of the lead characters. Soon, Godo found himself voicing Otaru Mamiya in the "Saber Marionette" series, marking a pivotal moment in his career. However, as lucrative as the dubbing industry could be, Godo decided to shift his focus to news, an opportunity that would lead to his eventual promotion to news program director after a decade of dedication.
The Most Memorable Dubbing Experience
When asked about his most memorable dubbing experience, Godo enthusiastically reminisced about his time with "Remi." Voicing a lead character in a widely beloved show brought immense joy and responsibility. The show's 10:00 AM time slot meant that it was a staple for children, making "Remi" a top-earning cartoon during its run.
Godo shared the challenges he faced during this period, with early morning dubbing sessions that sometimes extended into the wee hours of the night due to airing delays. This rigorous schedule tested his endurance, with coffee being the primary weapon against fatigue. Nevertheless, it was the freshness of his voice, coupled with his passion for the craft, that drew directors to him during auditions.
Navigating the Challenges
As in any industry, politics and internal dynamics played a significant role in Godo's journey. He recalled how groups and favoritism could determine one's success in the dubbing world. Those who weren't part of the favored circles faced difficulties despite their talents. However, Godo and his colleague, Pocholo, adhered to their principles and refused to engage in sycophantic behavior.
Their approach led them through different dubbing groups, navigating the industry's politics without compromising their integrity. Godo emphasized that maintaining a professional mindset was key in handling these challenges.
Lessons from Dubbing Applied to News
Godo's transition to news directing was a natural evolution. His experience in dubbing provided him with unique skills, such as helping news anchors with proper delivery and even framing camera angles. Dubbing, it turned out, had equipped him with tools that he could seamlessly apply to his new career.
Words of Wisdom
In conclusion, Godo Hernandez shared three vital lessons with aspiring dubbers and individuals pursuing their dreams:
1. Catch Your Dreams: Instead of merely following your dreams, seize them. Pursue your goals relentlessly, as success often rewards those who actively chase their aspirations.
2. Learn from Failure: Failure is an integral part of the journey towards success. Embrace it as a learning opportunity rather than a setback.
3. Mindset Matters: A positive and determined mindset is essential in any endeavor. It shapes your goals, actions, and ultimately, your success.
As Godo wisely stated, "The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit." His journey from voice dubbing to news directing is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and a passion for one's craft. Godo Hernandez's story serves as an inspiring reminder that one's career path can be as diverse and exciting as one's imagination allows.