PAGADIAN CITY – In a historic event, over 800 Barangay Information Officers (BIONs) from across Zamboanga del Sur province attended the first-ever Barangay Information Officers Network (BION) Assembly, held on November 28 at Pavillon Hall, Provincial Government Complex, Dao, Pagadian. This landmark gathering was organized by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), marking a new chapter in strengthening local communication networks across the country.
PIA Director General (DG) Katherine Chloe Sinsuat De Castro graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of the assembly in empowering BIONs to better serve their communities.
Kayo, bilang mga BION, ang syang nagpapalakas at nagpapatibay sa ating kimunikasyon pang gobyerno upang lehitimo at napapanahong mga impormamasyon ay makaabot kahit sa pinaka sulok at laylayan ng lipunan.” (You are the ones who strengthen and solidify our government communication efforts so that legitimate and timely information reaches even the remotest corners and marginalized sectors of society.) De Castro said underscoring the significance of BIOs in ensuring inclusive and transparent communication.
DG De Castro said, through initiatives like this the government reaffirms its promise to inclusivity and modernization in delivering information for a “Bagong Pilipinas.”
She said that the BION assembly is an important milestone in recognizing the crucial role of Barangay Information Officers. As the first BION assembly led by the PCO and PIA, she shared that the agency is excited to offer this platform for collaboration, learning, and professional growth.
As part of the assembly’s agenda, BIONs were given a comprehensive refresher on their core roles and responsibilities. The session aimed to reinforce their understanding of their duties as key communicators between the government and the local communities they serve.
Capacity-Building and Skill Enhancement
A major component of the assembly was its focus on capacity-building. BIONs participated in various short courses to enhance their skills in vital areas of information dissemination. BIONs were trained on how to identify misinformation and fake news, as well as best practices for responsible social media management. This session addressed the growing need for information officers to combat the spread of false information.
Participants learned how to effectively collect data and use it to support community-based development programs and governance. This session emphasized the importance of using accurate data to communicate government initiatives and respond to local needs.
BIONs were also trained on how to maintain a strong and effective information network, ensuring the continuous flow of reliable information across the region. This was particularly important for reaching more remote and underserved areas, especially in times of crisis.
“Malaking tulong ang mga pagsasanay na ito para matutunan namin kung paano makasabay sa mga pagbabago sa paraan ng pagpapakalat ng impormasyon. Ngayon, mayroon na kaming mga kasangkapan para labanan ang maling impormasyon at siguraduhin na ang aming mga komunidad ay laging tama at sapat ang kaalaman,” (The training sessions have been incredibly useful in helping us adapt to the evolving landscape of information dissemination. We now have the tools to fight misinformation and make sure our communities stay well-informed.) shared one participant.
The gathering also served as a reminder of the importance of a unified and well-connected BION network. By working together, the officers can ensure that timely and accurate information reaches every corner of Zamboanga del Sur and the entire Zamboanga Peninsula.
A Step Toward Better Governance
DG De Castro emphasized the importance of collaboration and unity in the BION network. She said this first-ever BION assembly is just the beginning. “As we move forward, we will continue to support and empower you to carry out your duties as information officers, who are the backbone of our communication efforts at the grassroots level,” she said.
With the success of this ground-breaking event, the PCO and PIA are committed to strengthening the capacities of local information officers across the country. The assembly served as a significant step in improving government communication efforts and ensuring that the people of Zamboanga del Sur remain informed, engaged, and empowered. (EDT/JPA/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)
