CAGAYAN de Oro City Councilor Joyleen Mercedes ‘Girlie’ Balaba issued a plea to the media not to forsake their duty of delivering accurate news amidst growing concerns over the state of journalism today.
Speaking at the Culmination Night of the 42nd Press Freedom Week Celebration on May 25, Balaba underscored the importance of maintaining the media’s watchdog role within the community.
Balaba, a former industry insider, voiced apprehension regarding the contemporary media landscape, where discerning between truth and falsehoods becomes increasingly challenging due to the proliferation of social media platforms.
Addressing the gathering, she expressed deep concern over the prevalence of false information spread through social media channels, highlighting the alarming trend where individuals often mistake fabricated content for authentic news.
Froilan Gallardo, President of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club, extended gratitude for the successful outcomes of the week-long celebration, spanning from May 20 to 25.
Activities during the Press Freedom Week included a collaborative Medical and Dental Mission, organized with the 4ID Defense Press Corps and the Provincial Health Office. The initiative benefited approximately 79 media personnel and their families.
Gallardo further commended the active participation of club officers and members in various activities throughout the week, including a sportsfest, lectures on COPC By-Laws, and the signing of an agreement with lawyers from the Movement Against Disinformation, offering free legal services for libel cases.
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