CEBU, February 29 (PIA) -- Emphasizing the importance of building strong media partnerships to get the message of government services to the public, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 7 recognized its partners and stakeholders in the region.

The DSWD7 held its first Media Pasalamat with the theme "Keeping People Informed on Social Welfare and Development in the Ever-Changing Media Landscape" in Cebu City on Feb. 22.

DSWD7 handed out plaques of appreciation to government agencies and local media workers for their constant support in spreading correct information about the DSWD.

The event featured an awarding ceremony for DSWD's outstanding media partners, including information officers of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in the region, namely: information officer III Hazel Gloria and information officer I Robinson Cabardo of the regional office; information officer II Elvira Bongosia of PIA Bohol; and information officer II Roi Anthony Lomotan of PIA Negros Oriental. 

Anabelle Lagrosas, production supervisor of DYMR-Radyo Pilipinas Cebu and one of the awardees, said the award gave her purpose and zeal to continue her commitment to social responsibility as a government broadcast journalist.

“I am also grateful to DSWD7 for its invaluable support to 'Government on Line,' a radio program over DYMR Radyo Pilipinas Cebu that caters to various government agencies and their advocacy campaigns.  DSWD7 has been a regular guest on the radio program to ensure that the agency’s vision of a country that is free from hunger and poverty is very well communicated to the public,” Lagrosas said.

These awards serve as DSWD7's way of thanking media partners and government information agencies in Central Visayas for being a reliable partner in the fight against fake news, sharing correct information and updates, and helping educate the public about the programs of DSWD.

In her message, DSWD7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero presented the accomplishments of their department and the various programs and services implemented by the agency in the region. 

Lucero also introduced new agency programs such as the Oplan Pag-Abot Program; Tara, Basa Program; No Hunger 2027: Food Stamp Program; and Whole Country Ready.

The event was led by DSWD7's Social Marketing Unit, which is responsible for the agency's advocacy, promotions, education, and communications efforts headed by Leah Tagalo Quintana. (ECB/PIA7 Bohol)