Why everyone’s crushing on Atom Araullo

Written by Edel Cayetano

Monday, 5 May 2014 - Last Updated on May 16, 2014
inShar e

By Zofia Leal

Ask anyone who grew up watching 5 and Up during the 1990’s and they will probably say that one of
the reasons that they watched the show was because of Atom Araullo. Now a news reporter, Atom
can still make anyone, even Vice Ganda, shriek in delight.

We all know that one of the things that has possibly put Atom among the most crush-worthy
celebrities is because of his daring reporting during Typhoon Yolanda last year. Even after getting
wet and with their equipment ruined, Atom continued to report about the situation at the ground
through his Twitter account. When people started to call him a hero, he was the first to humbly say
that he is not. Still, it did not stop the admiration that he has gained.

A poster was even made about his courageous act.

Which brings us to the first reason why everyone is crushing on

Atom Araullo

1. He looks good on anything, even when wet.

 Need I say more?

2. He’s a gentleman

Despite his celebrity status, you would not see Atom’s name in any controversy. In fact, his break-up
with Patty Laurel a few years back did not even make it to the showbiz headlines. This was posted in
Patty’s blog after the couple broke-up.

“It was a mutual decision made with much respect and care for one another. It may be hard to
believe and I’m sure a lot of you are waiting for a nasty breakup story for me to tell, but the truth is..it
was a very clean and positive breakup. Contrary to all the rumors, we were very kind and faithful to
one another during our entire 4 years. I have nothing but admiration and respect for Atom…and I’d
like to believe he feels that way for me too. Please be happy for us, as we are truly happy for one
another now..and the new and exciting things we both will face as individuals.”
By the way, Patty was Atom’s first girlfriend and they were together for four years. And yes, he is
currently single.

3. He’s had his share of failures

While studying at the University of the Philippines-Diliman, Atom ran for the Student Council
presidency under the Student Alliance for the Advancement of Democratic Rights (STAND-UP) and
lost.

In a 2006 interview with the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, Atom said the loss was a
humbling experience and “a rude awakening”, but that it has helped him appreciate things more.

4. He’s funny

For someone who looks so serious, it’s a pleasant surprise that the TV reporter has a sense of
humor. Here are a few of his answers during his interview with Ricky Lo.

What part of your body needs improvement?

“I could always improve my endurance, which is to say my cardiovascular system. It comes in handy
for many situations, especially in the off-chance of a zombie apocalypse.”

Do you talk in your sleep?

“In Mandarin. Kidding.”

Do you sleepwalk?

“I moonwalk, hehehehe!”

5. He is a man who will fight for your honor (I bet you sang that!)

Being the son of activists, Atom is also an activist himself, being a member of the League of Filipino
Students during his college days.

Here’s what he had to say about reform and societal change in an interview with Wilson Lee Flores:

“Reforms are one thing, but if I may be bold, I think what the country needs is radical change in the
socio-political system. I believe it has many inherent defects that allow for the exploitation and
oppression of many people.

For example, although we produce many brilliant engineers and scientists, there doesn’t seem to be
a serious push toward national industrialization, something that is key to growth and development.”

6. Oh and yes, he sings…