Journo-cop cooperation vital to effective policing – police chief

By Rosalita Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte --- Police officers and journalists from Camarines Norte temporarily set aside their duties to celebrate National Press Freedom Day on August 30 at the police headquarters here in Daet.

The celebration began with a motorcade through downtown Daet and culminated in a sports fest where journalists competed in basketball, badminton, chess, tug of war, sack races, and patintero.

During the opening program, Police Provincial Director Col. Lito Andaya addressed the journalists, emphasizing that the celebration of press freedom highlights the importance of cooperation.

“It brings meaning to the relationship between the police and the media,” he said.

“Even though you are in the media and we are the police, our work is almost the same. Let’s work together so that our police officers are seen as more professional and responsible. At the same time, the media provides reliable information to our fellow citizens in our quest for a better Philippines,” Andaya added.

Maj. Marvin Hugos, the public information officer of the Camarines Norte Police Provincial Office, welcomed the journalists, emphasizing that the occasion serves as a reminder of the important role that the media plays in free expression.

He added that the police force in Camarines Norte acknowledges the significance of press freedom and is committed to protecting the rights and safety of journalists.

“Together, let us enrich the culture of free expression, responsibility, and respect for human rights,” Hugos stated.

Donde Consuelo, president of the Camarines Norte Press Club, expressed his gratitude to the more than 60 journalists who participated in the all-day event.

Camarines Norte Police Press Corps president Jorge Dayaon, who is also the station manager of DWCN-Radyo Pilipinas and has nearly three decades of experience as a journalist, remarked, “Let’s stand firm in upholding the principles and dignity of our work.”

He emphasized that the responsibility to provide accurate information and proper guidance to the community lies with them.

“Let’s fulfill our duty to every resident of Camarines Norte by providing reliable information, fighting fake news, and fostering positive relationships not only with the police but also with other government agencies and the community,” he urged. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Norte)