PIA urges PIOs to engage audiences in finding climate solutions

By Keren Anne Bernadas

SORSOGON CITY --- The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) is urging government information officers to not only provide information but also encourage audiences to take action on the critical issue of climate change.

Darrel Winthrop Torres, chief of the PIA Program Management Division, emphasized the importance of motivating the audience to adopt sustainable behaviors in order to achieve climate stabilization.

“Our role is foundational to behavioral change. We are not just raising awareness; awareness is merely the first step. Ultimately, it is about changing behaviors,” Torres stated during a seminar-workshop on climate change communication organized by the PIA.

Close to 40 key personnel from both regional and central offices of the PIA participated in the three-day training, which began on Wednesday, Nov. 5, in Sorsogon City.

The PIA is mandated to disseminate information regarding climate change, including local vulnerabilities, risks, relevant laws, protocols, and adaptation and mitigation measures, as stated in Section 15 of Republic Act (RA) 9729, or an act mainstreaming climate change into government policy formulations.

The law guarantees Filipinos the right to comprehensive protection and advancement toward a healthy ecology in harmony with nature.

Jorybell Masallo, assistant chief of weather services at the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, explained that climate scientists need the assistance of professional communicators to achieve the ultimate goal of climate action and mitigate the impacts of the climate crisis.

“Severe typhoons are becoming more frequent, and we are also experiencing droughts. These are the projections we provide to inform our fellow citizens so that relevant government actions can be initiated,” Masallo stated.

She noted that scientists often use technical terms that can be difficult to understand.

“We want to change that, and we cannot do it without the help of the media and the PIA. You are essential for our government in providing information and facilitating community responses,” Masallo concluded. (PIA Bicol)