Bacolod Rep. Greg Gasataya urged the media to continue to serve as the eyes and ears of the citizenry and be the voice of the marginalized to inspire action from the public and government.
Gasataya was the guest speaker at the induction of the new officers of the Negros Press Club led by its president Bryan Morden of XFM Bacolod at Sugarland Hotel Sunday night, April 16.
Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez, who donated P500,000 to the club, was also at the induction rites.
Gasataya, a former mediaman who administered the oath of the new officers, said “media’s role is important as you are our direct line to the masses, enabling people to make crucial decisions, not only in policies but especially during disasters.”
“You have performed well your role in serving the people in the last nine decades and I hope you will continue to stand by the truth especially in this times of disinformation,” Gasataya said.
Morden’s speech centered on asking media practitioners to stand by truth at all cost, “despite knowing how hard it is especially when our lives and that of our family are put at risk in our pursuit of truth. But I urge you all to stand by the truth and continue defending press freedom.”
Benitez said he hopes the NPC, aside from being a catalyst of change, must foremost serve as support group where members can find solace and ensure that their needs are taken cared of.
“It really is difficult in bringing everybody to the direction it needs to be taken and I am asking everyone to help out in steering where Bacolod should go, and the role of media is crucial in this”, the mayor also said. .
The mayor likened the city to a ship that he wants to steer to the direction he believes will be good for Bacolod with him as the captain.
However, Benitez admitted that change is slower than expected because “the hardest part of running the city is city hall itself.”
“The steering wheel is quite heavy and change might take a little more time but in due time we will be able to succeed in steering this ship towards a new direction and a new vision for our city,” he added.
The other new NPC officers are Merlinda Pedrosa – vice president Primrose Catherine Tejida – secretary, Maximiano Macahilo – treasurer, and Elsie Jolingan – auditor.
The directors are Jemlo Victosa, Marchel Espina, Mae Singuay and Alvin Grava, and Aquilino Ciocon – ex- officio.*