Media professionals from Tagbilaran City gathered for a two-day
intensive seminar and workshop on Media Ethics and Local Governance
on May 23-24, 2023 at the MetroCentre Hotel.
The training conducted by the United States Agency for International
Development (USAID) through its Cities for Enhanced Governance and
Engagement (CHANGE) Project brought together journalists, reporters,
and media personnel from various print and broadcast media outlets
across Tagbilaran City.
Dr. Rosalinda Paredes, USAID CHANGE City Governance Coordinator,
emphasized the project’s commitment to foster citizen engagement and
promote accountable governance by collaborating with the local
government of Tagbilaran City.
The training aimed to review media ethical standards, promote
responsible journalism, and foster a deeper understanding of local
governance dynamics among media practitioners, and City Government
staff who are engaged in information sharing through media outlets.
Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, represented by City Administrator
Cathelyn Torremocha, recognized the significance of a free and
responsible media in a democratic society, as she expressed her
support for the training initiative.
“A well-informed and responsible media plays a crucial role in our city’s
development. This training provides an excellent opportunity to
strengthen our ties with media practitioners and to promote effective
collaboration and constructive engagement between the media and local
governance stakeholders,” she stated.
Aside from Dr. Paredes, Mr. Rey Anthony Chiu, Manager of the
Philippine Information Agency Bohol, shared their expertise as resource
persons on the role of media in local governance and journalism ethical
standards.
At the conclusion of the training, participants expressed their gratitude
for the opportunity to expand their knowledge in media ethics and local
governance. They acknowledged the importance of responsible
journalism in promoting a transparent and accountable society and
pledged to uphold the highest ethical standards in their respective roles.