FROILAN Gallardo, recently elected as the 39th president of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club (COPC), has pledged to quell political assaults on the esteemed media organization, marking a significant policy shift under his leadership.
Gallardo, a prominent figure associated with MindaNews, secured his position as director once more, earning the trust of the 15 board members who endorsed his presidency on February 10. Gallardo assumes leadership of the oldest media institution in the nation at 73 years old with a resolute commitment to fostering an environment free from political interference.
"I am determined to halt all political hostilities directed at our club," Gallardo affirmed. "We shall unify our efforts toward this cause."
Addressing inquiries about his agenda as club president, Gallardo emphasized a dual focus on training and healthcare initiatives. "We aim to enhance the professionalism of our members through comprehensive training programs," he asserted.
Gallardo also underscored the importance of prioritizing the health and well-being of COPC members. During the inaugural board meeting on February 16, Corporate Secretary Stephanie Berganio proposed the discussion of implementing health insurance coverage for all club affiliates. However, deliberations on this proposal were deferred to the subsequent board session, according to Director Amor Barlisan.
The induction ceremony witnessed the swearing-in of COPC officials, including President Gallardo, Executive Vice President Honey Pisos, Vice Presidents Nef Luczon and Annaliza Amontos-Reyes, Corporate Secretary Berganio, Treasurer Gal Banaag, Auditor Joey Nacalaban, and Directors Barlisan, Tony, Albaña, Fred Soriano, Rose Mondejar, Martin Rapanot, and Allan Mediante. Former COPC Director Attorney Gil Banaag administered the oath.
Directors Jao Gumapac and Ric Ociones were subsequently sworn in during the course of the inaugural meeting under the auspices of President Gallardo.
Gallardo's ascendancy heralds a new chapter for the COPC, marked by a steadfast commitment to journalistic integrity and the safeguarding of press freedoms amidst a challenging political landscape.
