I’m a writer and reporter based in Vancouver, B.C.

I currently work as a writer and editor for CityNews Vancouver, where I report, script, cut and edit video for the 6 p.m. supper show and specials for the 24/7 streaming channel.

Previously, I was a copy editor with CBC News, where I helped reporters develop, edit and sharpen their web stories in addition to producing multi-platform stories of my own.

As a freelancer, I’ve written about immigration and diaspora communities for the Globe and Mail and the Guardian US. Through funding from Canada’s Local Journalism Initiative, my reporting has also been published in New Canadian Media and the Toronto Star.

I was born in the Philippines, where I later attended university to study journalism; and grew up in Hong Kong, where I spent the earlier part of my career as a writer, then editor, for lifestyle magazines.

Contact

For story tips, speaking or teaching engagements, or a copy of my resume, email me at johnabaylon(at)gmail(dot)com and I’ll respond as soon as I can.

If you are a young journalist, or a journalist who’s new to Canada, I’m also available to chat about breaking into the industry and pitching stories — please feel free to reach me via email.

News & Features

  • June 2024: How Does That Sound? Podcast invited me to chat about working in news, the future of news, and building a career in media

  • June 2024: I made a small contribution to The Filipino Edition radio station’s special on Philippine Independence Day

  • January 2022: With New Canadian Media, I facilitated First Bylines, an online workshop about breaking into Canada’s media industry for newcomer journalists

  • April 2021: I spoke to ImmLight Podcast about immigrating and writing about immigration