TACLOBAN CITY — Recognizing the media’s vital role in informing the public about social protection programs, the Social Security System (SSS) gathered journalists and media organizations from across Eastern Visayas during its 2025 Media Appreciation Dinner held on December 16 at Antonio’s Event Center in Barangay 83, San Jose Paraiso, this city.
The event, which brought together media practitioners from Tacloban City, Ormoc City, and Catbalogan City, marked the first time the SSS staged its annual media appreciation gathering in December, aligning the occasion with the holiday season and the agency’s year-end thanksgiving activities.
SSS Senior Vice President for the Visayas Operations Group Atty. Alberto Montalbo said the dinner was a tribute to journalists and media organizations for their continued partnership in disseminating accurate, timely, and relevant information on SSS programs, benefits, and reforms.
“Our media partners play a crucial role in ensuring that our members understand their rights, benefits, and responsibilities. Your work helps build trust in the institution and brings government services closer to the people,” Montalbo said.
During the program, SSS officials presented certificates of appreciation, holiday giveaways, and other tokens to media organizations that have consistently supported the agency’s information and advocacy campaigns throughout the year.
Meanwhile, SSS Vice President for Visayas Central 2 Division Atty. Porferio Salidaga Jr. underscored the importance of the media in promoting transparency and public confidence, particularly in reaching members and beneficiaries in remote and underserved areas of Eastern Visayas.
The evening featured dinner, welcome and Christmas messages from SSS officials, raffle draws, live band performances, and the formal awarding of certificates, providing an opportunity for informal interaction between SSS officials and members of the press.
The Leyte Samar Daily Express expressed its appreciation to the Social Security System for the invitation and for recognizing the media’s role as a key partner in advancing public service and social protection awareness in the region.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
