Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Assistant Secretary Michel André Del Rosario delivers his keynote message during the first day of the inaugural Information and Media Summit on Oct. 18, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang in Davao City. (Morsid Kadir/BIO)
DAVAO CITY—National government officials reiterated their steadfast commitment to enhance information access in the Bangsamoro region and to support the continued progress of the Bangsamoro peace process.
The commitment was made during the kick-off of the 3-day Information and Media Summit on Oct. 18, held at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang, in this city.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Assistant Secretary Michel André Del Rosario mentioned President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s firm commitment of support to the Bangsamoro Peace Process.
He said that this is a collective mission and a shared responsibility that requires active participation of all stakeholders to ensure that the Bangsamoro Peace Process is at the forefront of the national agenda.
“Bangsamoro peace process is a shared dream of peace and prosperity, and the role of media, communicators, and the role of communication in general in this endeavor is paramount,” ASec. Del Rosario said.
He emphasized that the government’s communication arm bear the responsibility of delivering accurate and timely information, while the media plays a crucial role in ensuring that the Bangsamoro community is well-informed about the BARMM’s developments, initiatives, and policies.
He urged the communicators of the Bangsamoro Government as well as private media practitioners to safeguard the press freedom and create an atmosphere where media and the press can operate without fear of censorship, reprisal or intimidation.
“Together we can fulfill our shared goal of building a brighter and more peaceful future for the Bangsamoro and our entire nation,” he added.
Meanwhile, Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) Undersecretary Paulino Gutierrez encouraged the press members covering the BARMM to maintain their dedication to principles of fairness and professionalism.
“Our principal mandate is to address all cases of violations of the right to life, liberty, and security of all members of the media […] rest assured that PTFoMs shall be here to assist you whenever you need it,” he said.
The summit, carrying the theme “Amplifying Voices, Nurturing the Gains of the Peace Process: The Role of Communicators in the Bangsamoro Region”, aims to reinforce the collaboration between the BARMM Government and those involved in the information and media.
The pursuit of sustaining and enhancing peace, justice, and security throughout the BARMM via the Information and Media Summit aligns with the 11th priority in CM Ebrahim’s Enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO)
