BAYBAY CITY – With Eastern Visayas often in the path of destructive typhoons and other hazards, over 50 government information officers and media practitioners gathered this city for a one-day orientation on crisis communication organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).
The training, held on Wednesday,Oct.1, aimed to strengthen the ability of government agencies and their media partners to deliver swift, accurate, and responsible information during emergencies, whether caused by natural disasters or man-made crises.
Eastern Visayas has seen repeated large-scale disasters in recent decades, most notably Super Typhoon ‘Yolanda’ (Haiyan) in 2013, making effective crisis communication a vital component of disaster preparedness and response.
The activity was held in partnership with the provincial government of Leyte through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s Committee on Public Information chaired by 5th District Board Member Atty. Carlo Loreto.
PIA Regional Director Reyan Arinto underscored the need for every agency to formulate its own crisis communication plan to ensure a coordinated flow of information.
“It is important that people, especially those directly affected, receive timely and accurate information to help them make informed decisions during emergencies,” he said.
Loreto, meanwhile, commended the initiative, stressing that effective communication not only builds transparency and trust in government but also plays a role in empowering communities during difficult times. “I hope that in your discussion, you will also look for ways to communicate not only on reporting the effects of crisis but also on the opportunities and endless possibilities for the people of the province in these crucial moments,” he added.
The orientation included workshops on planning, managing, and disseminating information under pressure, reflecting the critical role of communicators in reducing panic, preventing misinformation, and guiding the public in times of crisis.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
