CEBU — The Cebu Provincial Government has brought together information officers from at least 40 local government units for a two-day congress focused on sharpening public communication. The event, which began on August 12, 2026 at the Capitol Social Hall, aims to help LGUs deliver accurate and timely information in an era dominated by social media.
A Conference for Clearer Communication
The congress carries the theme “Strengthening Creative Public Information and Digital Communication,” reflecting the province’s push to modernize how government messages are crafted and delivered. Provincial Information Officer Ainjeliz de la Torre-Orong explained that Governor Pamela Baricuatro believes even the best programs fail if people do not understand them. The training is designed to bridge that gap between policy and public awareness.
Participants are learning practical skills to improve crisis communication, digital content production, and public information campaigns. The sessions tackle misinformation head-on, providing tools to counter false narratives that can undermine public trust. By equipping information officers with these abilities, the province aims to ensure that government services reach their intended beneficiaries.
Learning from Media Veterans
The congress features sessions led by respected figures in journalism and digital media. Veteran journalist Connie Fernandez-Brojan is covering crisis management, while Joeberth Ocao of GMA Regional TV teaches mobile journalism. Videography expert Idden de los Reyes and photojournalist Juan Carlo de Vela are also leading workshops to enhance visual storytelling.
These hands-on sessions cover everything from social media poster design to the fundamentals of photojournalism. The goal is not just to inform but to transform information officers into skilled communicators capable of producing clear, engaging content. Each workshop provides practical techniques that participants can immediately apply in their own LGUs.
Public Trust Depends on Transparency
Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano emphasized that democracy thrives when the public knows what government is doing. He warned that misinformation and fake news flourish when accurate information is absent, making government appear ineffective. The congress is a direct response to that challenge, ensuring that information officers are prepared to tell the government’s story accurately and proactively.
The initiative builds on earlier directives requiring every municipality and city in Cebu to designate official Public Information Officers. The provincial government continues to strengthen its communication network, recognizing that transparency is essential for public trust. By investing in its communicators, Cebu is investing in the strength of its democracy.
