In a significant move to bolster the flow of accurate government information, the provincial government of Misamis Oriental and the city government of Cagayan de Oro have thrown their support behind the empowerment of barangay information officers (BIOs). This initiative was highlighted during the Bagong Pilipinas Barangay Information Officers Network (BION) event held in Cagayan de Oro City on November 21, 2024.
Roy Waga, a consultant from the Misamis Oriental Information Office, emphasized the pivotal role BIOs play in disseminating information about government programs, including the province’s ambitious plan to reduce poverty to single digits. Waga stressed that BIOs are essential in connecting the government with local communities, ensuring that crucial information reaches all parts of the province, echoing the sentiments of Governor Peter Unabia.
City Administrator Roy Hilario Raagas also spoke at the event, underscoring the importance of BION in facilitating communication between local communities and the national government, ensuring that the information shared is both timely and relevant.
The event saw the participation of around 400 BIOs from Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental, organized by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) through the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). PCO Assistant Secretary for Cultural Affairs and International Engagements, Rowena Hidalgo-Otida, highlighted the network’s role in enhancing communication and community engagement under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Hidalgo-Otida described the Bagong Pilipinas brand of governance as one that fosters trust in government leadership while also recognizing the active role citizens play in national programs. She emphasized that the goal is to set a standard of excellence in personal, community, and national life.
The event was further supported by the participation of the Philippine News Agency and Radyo Pilipinas, demonstrating a collaborative effort to enhance the effectiveness of BIOs in their crucial role.