"There is a need to pool a network of information officers from the barangays to disseminate government projects, programs, and services through various media platforms.  They become the official mouthpieces and sources of truthful information in terms of dissemination to its immediate community from the barangay level to the municipal, province or city, and the national level," Amor added.

Bago City Vice Mayor Ramon D. Torres cited the multi-tasking roles of the BIOs who primarily are barangay secretaries but will now act as development communicators.

"Be wary of fake news that can potentially damage local leadership, tarnish the good image of the officials, and create confusion," Torres told the designated BIOs.

Aside from being information front liners, BIOs can facilitate gaining access to the benefits and assistance from other government agencies through the Information-Education Communication activities and materials available.

The BIOs are expected to coordinate regularly with the Municipal/City Information Officer (MIO) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to deliver one-messaging in terms of government services and attend and participate in coordination meetings and capacity-building activities for competence development.

In Negros Occidental, the next stop of the BIO launching and establishment will be the City of Victorias with 26 barangays, and the capital city of Bacolod with 61 barangays.