PIA Caraga chief gives high regard to the barangay information officers
By Jennifer P.
Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – As the communication arm of the government, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga continues to extend support and conduct capability enhancement to the barangay information officers (BIOs) in the region.
This was also reiterated by PIA Caraga Regional Head Venus Garcia during the recently held Barangay Information Officers Network (BION) Assembly, the first leg in the region, which was held at the covered court, D.O. Plaza Government Center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
“This gathering aims not only to foster camaraderie but to inculcate a deeper sense of responsibility as government communicators. Kaya ‘yung pledge of commitment ninyo kanina ang nagpapatunay ng inyong pangako na gampanan ng maayos at tapat ang pagiging barangay information officer. [That is why the pledge of commitment made earlier served as proof of your promise that you will perform your duties well as barangay information officers.] Because as information officers, we are the mouthpiece, the harbinger of truth. Truth about what the government is really doing for the people; truth about the initiatives, programs, projects, policies and concrete actions of the government,” she underscored.
With the overwhelming participation of the Bios from the 314 barangays of the province, Garcia assured that PIA will continue to reach out to them and provide the necessary skills enhancement when necessary.
She believed that the BIOs even from those who are residing at the far-flung barangays will be more equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for them to be more effective and efficient in performing their roles and responsibilities in their respective community.
“Thank you all for your active participation in today's Barangay Information Officers Assembly. You play a crucial role in enhancing communication and fostering a stronger connection with our communities. As we move forward, let’s continue to work together to ensure that information reaches every corner of our barangays. Let’s remain committed to our shared goals for progress and service,” she said.
“Information is vital and we will continue to inform every Filipino to empower them. Let's build a bolder, proactive and stronger network of BIOs or barangay information officers for a more resilient Caraga,” expressed Garcia.
She also highlighted the full support of the local officials in the province for their unending support for the development of the Agsurnon information officers.
“I'd like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to the provincial government of Agusan del Sur led by Gov. Santi Cane Jr. who has given his full support to this important endeavor. To all the personnel of the provincial government who shared their time and effort in the preparation for the success of today's event, daghang salamat,” she said.
“Thank you as well to Agusan del Sur 1st District Congressional Representative Alfel Bascug and 2nd District Congressional Representative Adolph Edward Plaza. Your support is greatly appreciated. Katuwang din po natin sa aktibidad na ito ang Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga headed by Regional Director Maria Loisella Lucino,” Garcia added.
Other than the BIOs, the department information officers of the provincial government of Agusan del Sur with some coming from various national agencies, Garcia also expressed her warmest gratitude for their valuable contribution in making the first BION Assembly in the region a successful one.
“And of course sa inyong lahat na nandito ngayon, our partner provincial, municipal and barangay information officers of Agusan del Sur, including the division information officers of the provincial government of Agusan del Sur, your presence is a testament of your commitment to perform the roles as information officers and to deliver timely, accurate relevant information para sa matatag, panatag, at maginhawang Bagong Pilipinas,” she said.
Meanwhile, for calendar year 2025, PIA Caraga has initially planned two pocket meeting with the BIOs, which will be conducted in the second semester. (JPG, PIA-Agusan del Sur)