Gulf News mourns the loss of Patrick Gayong Masahud, a dedicated professional whose 33-year career significantly impacted the organization's digital evolution.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Jul 24, 2026 ALN: Dubai: Gulf News is mourning the passing of former colleague Patrick Gayong Masahud, a respected newsroom professional whose dedication and commitment helped shape the organisation's transition from print to digital over more than three decades.
Patrick passed away on July 19 after a courageous battle with a brain tumour. He was laid to rest the following day, July 20, at the Manila Muslim South Cemetery in the Philippines. This loss has deeply affected not only his family but also the many colleagues and friends he made throughout his long career.
A family gathering in his memory will be held on July 25 at Bidua Arabic Restaurant in Manila, where friends and family will come together to celebrate his life and contributions.
Patrick joined Gulf News in November 1992 as deputy librarian, beginning a career that would span over 33 years and see him play a pivotal role in the evolution of the newspaper's editorial and digital operations. His journey at Gulf News reflects the broader changes in the media landscape, particularly the shift from traditional print journalism to a more dynamic digital approach that has become essential in the modern age.
He was promoted to librarian in May 1997, a role that allowed him to manage and curate the vast resources that would support the editorial team. His expertise in information management was crucial during a time when the demand for timely and accurate information was paramount. In April 2001, Patrick transitioned into the digital realm as web content administrator, a position that marked the beginning of his significant contributions to Gulf News’ online presence.
In May 2003, he became the web administrator, and this role was critical as it involved overseeing the functionality and content of the Gulf News website, ensuring that it met the needs of its growing online readership. His appointment as online production coordinator in July 2007 further solidified his position as a key player in the newsroom's digital transformation.
In April 2009, Patrick took on the role of system editor, a position in which he continued to support the newsroom's growing digital ambitions. His technical proficiency and understanding of digital tools helped streamline processes that were vital for the newsroom's efficiency. In September 2020, he was promoted to digital product lead, serving in that role until his retirement from Gulf News in January 2026. This final role underscored his leadership in guiding the digital strategy and product development, ensuring that Gulf News remained competitive in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Throughout his career, Patrick earned the admiration of colleagues for his technical expertise, quiet professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies was particularly noteworthy, as he always embraced change and encouraged others to do the same. This adaptability is essential in the fast-paced world of journalism, where the landscape can shift dramatically in a short amount of time.
Paying tribute, Vijay Vaghela, CEO of Gulf News, expressed heartfelt condolences, stating, "The management and staff at Gulf News express our deepest condolences on the passing of our esteemed former colleague, Patrick Masahud. We honour his years of dedicated service and loyalty to Gulf News." This sentiment reflects the deep respect and affection that Patrick garnered throughout his career.
Vaghela continued, "Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Rizalina, his two children, his wider family and his friends during this difficult time. May he rest in peace." The outpouring of support from the Gulf News community highlights the impact Patrick had on those around him.
Mark Thompson, Editor-in-Chief of Gulf News, also shared his thoughts on Patrick's contributions, noting that they would long be remembered. "We are all very sad to hear that Patrick had passed away. He had worked at Gulf News for such a long time and left a lasting impression on all of his colleagues. We are all thinking of Patrick's family and friends at this time, along with great memories that we have of Patrick." This reflection underscores the personal connections that Patrick fostered with his colleagues, illustrating how his influence extended beyond his professional capabilities.
Ashfaq Ahmed, Managing Editor of Gulf News, emphasized that Patrick's legacy was defined not only by his technical expertise but also by his character and resilience. "Patrick Masahud was one of those rare colleagues whose quiet dedication, professionalism, and kindness left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of working with him. During his more than three decades at Gulf News, he witnessed and helped shape the evolution of our newsroom from print to digital, always embracing change with remarkable commitment and expertise."
Ahmed further noted, "Patrick also demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of serious illness. He fought his battle with remarkable strength, dignity, and resilience, inspiring those around him with his unwavering spirit. Even during the most challenging times, he remained positive, gracious, and hopeful, qualities that reflected the strength of his character." This acknowledgment of Patrick's character during his illness speaks volumes about his influence on those around him, as he remained a source of inspiration even in difficult times.
"Beyond his technical excellence, Patrick will be remembered for his humility, generosity, and unwavering willingness to help others. He earned the respect and affection of colleagues across generations, not only for his work but for the warmth and integrity he brought to the workplace every day." These reflections from Ahmed illustrate how Patrick's impact transcended his professional achievements and extended into the personal relationships he cultivated throughout his career.
"On behalf of everyone at Gulf News, I extend our deepest condolences to Patrick's wife, children, family, and friends. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the contributions he made to our newsroom. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. May he rest in peace." This heartfelt message encapsulates the sentiments of the entire Gulf News community as they come to terms with the loss of a beloved colleague.
Patrick's career reflected the remarkable transformation of Gulf News from a print-first newsroom to a leading digital news organisation. Colleagues remember him not only as a skilled professional who embraced every new challenge but also as a dependable teammate whose humility, generosity, and willingness to support others made a lasting difference. His contributions remain woven into the fabric of the newsroom he helped build over three decades, and he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and service that will be remembered by generations of Gulf News journalists and staff.
He is survived by his family, friends, and countless former colleagues who continue to honour his memory. As the Gulf News community reflects on Patrick's life and career, it is clear that his influence will continue to resonate within the organisation, inspiring future generations of journalists and media professionals. The impact of his work and the relationships he built will serve as a testament to his character and commitment to excellence in journalism.
In remembering Patrick Masahud, Gulf News not only pays tribute to a remarkable career but also highlights the values of dedication, resilience, and integrity that he embodied. His journey serves as a reminder of the profound impact that one individual can have on an organisation and its culture, and he will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
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