Davao de Oro Gov. Dorothy Gonzaga (in stripes)
Davao de Oro Governor Dorothy Gonzaga has underscored the crucial role of barangay information officers (BIOs) in providing accurate and timely information to their communities, empowering them to make informed decisions.
During a recent assembly of BIOs at the Nabunturan National Comprehensive High School, Gonzaga commended the Presidential Communications Office and Philippine Information Agency for recognizing the BIOs as vital multipliers of information, particularly in reaching remote villages.
“Information is everything, especially when it’s accurate,” Gonzaga emphasized in her message.
She highlighted the disparity in access to information, noting that while residents in urban areas are bombarded with information through online services and social media, those in remote communities often lack access to reliable sources.
“This is why, in the past, we couldn’t blame those who were skeptical of the government,” Gonzaga stated. “They simply didn’t have access to accurate information about the government’s programs and initiatives.”
Gonzaga emphasized that a key goal for BIOs is to address public hesitations about the accuracy of government information.
“By providing accurate and reliable information, we can truly empower our people,” Gonzaga said, expressing gratitude to the BIOs for their commitment to providing the right information to their communities.
The establishment of the BIOs network in Davao de Oro with 237 barangays, is the first in the Davao region as spearheaded by PIA Region XI.
“With the BIOs in place, people will have easier access to government information. The BIOs will act as a central point of contact, coordinating information needs with other agencies,” PIA XI regional director Rene V. Carbayas said.
Carbayas emphasized that the BIO’s mission is “to inform, inspire, and empower the people in their communities to be better Filipinos in the Bagong Pilipinas.” (PIA Davao Region)
