PIA information needs survey reaches far-flung communities in Dinagat Islands
By Renelle Luzon Escuadro
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Philippine Information Agency researchers, using “bao-bao” tricycles, braved hours of rough travel to reach remote villages in Dinagat Islands, conducting a survey to assess local information needs.
Teams from the PIA’s Planning and Communication Research Division, along with Caraga information officers, visited San Vicente and Navarro barangays in Tubajon town, engaging residents in one-on-one interviews to gather data using scientific methods.
Jessica, a Barangay Navarro resident, expressed gratitude for the PIA’s effort.
“It’s very rare, especially with our distance, that we are asked if we are aware of the programs of the government,” she said in the local dialect. “Most services are conducted in the center of the province, so we fail to know and benefit from them. We request the government to prioritize and bring essential services to far-flung areas.”
She hoped the survey results would lead to improved government program delivery.
The survey also reached Cabayawan, an island barangay in Dinagat town, where residents rely on solar energy and generators.
Seven households participated, pleading for improved electricity and healthcare services. Due to the island’s topography, residents must travel 20-30 minutes by sea to access essential services.
Elsa, a senior citizen, suggested regular information caravans to inform residents about government programs.
The nationwide survey also covered Surigao City, the interior barangays of Panaosawon and Cabugo in Bayabas, Surigao del Sur, two barangays in Bislig City, and Rosario town in Agusan del Sur.
The Caraga leg of the nationwide survey, conducted March 15-20, included 71 households. The nationwide survey reached 1,200 respondents.
The survey aimed to ensure the PIA remains aligned with its mandate by accurately assessing the information needs of local communities. The results will help the agency improve its communication of government policies and programs, including information literacy initiatives. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)