The prestigious Francisco Cerezedo Journalism Award ceremony at Madrid’s Ritz Hotel opened in a notably subdued, even somewhat melancholic atmosphere. The mood was shaped by the many armed conflicts shaking the world—a point underscored in the opening remarks by jury president and La Voz de Galicia editor Xosé Luis Vilela. He also voiced concerns about the rising influence of technology and artificial intelligence on the reporting profession, setting a serious tone for an event attended by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.
This year’s honorary award went to Fran Sevilla, war correspondent for Spain’s National Radio. He was described as a “journalist for peace,” someone who has covered the world’s most dangerous hotspots for decades while always upholding the highest ethical standards and deep compassion for the victims of war. His work was presented as a model of humanistic journalism—so vital in these challenging times.
However, the tense and formal atmosphere was unexpectedly lightened by the jury secretary, journalist Miguel Ángel Aguilar. Taking the floor to announce the official decision, he chose to break protocol with a witty remark. Aguilar joked that the hall lacked both large screens and background music, and playfully added that he had an ‘unresolved issue’ with the Queen. Allegedly, Her Majesty had previously asked him to reconsider his conservative views on classical music. This quip sparked an instant and lively reaction from Letizia. Clearly surprised, she smiled and energetically waved her hands, wordlessly denying any such conversation.
King Felipe also joined in the playful exchange. Smiling, he assured those present that his wife genuinely appreciates classical music, as well as many other genres. The monarch added with a joke that, in his case, he more often has to deal with military marches. This brief episode humanized the ceremony, revealing an unexpected, informal side of the royal couple. In his response, laureate Fran Sevilla brought the evening back to its serious theme, delivering a moving speech about the tragedies of war and the immense responsibility borne by journalists working in conflict zones—whose duty is to tell the truth and be the voice for those who have none.
