Negros Occ. guv urges steadfast public information service

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson reminded government information officers to be steadfast channels of efficient public service through responsible and effective information dissemination.

The Negros Association of Government Information Officers and Liaisons (NAGIOL) held a forum and oath-taking ceremony for its new set of officers for 2025–2028 at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City on Monday morning.

Lacson administered the oath of office of the NAGIOL officers, led by President Dina Michelle Callejas of the Negros Occidental Provincial Information Office.

NAGIOL is an association of public information officers from all towns and cities of Negros Occidental, as well as national government agencies based in Bacolod City and the province.

The governor emphasized that information officers play a key role in keeping the public well-informed about government programs and initiatives, stressing that accurate information empowers citizens and strengthens good governance.

For his part, Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz reaffirmed the vital role of public information officers in public service, emphasizing that they serve as the bridge between the government and the people.

He also highlighted that in today’s fast-paced information environment, PIOs play a crucial part in countering misinformation and shaping a well-informed citizenry that can actively participate in governance and development.

During the forum, Esper Legaste of the Civil Service Commission–Negros Occidental gave a talk on ethics for government employees; Christine Mirano of PhilHealth Bacolod discussed PhilHealth’s YAKAP (Yaman ng Kalusugan Para sa Lahat) program; while Justine Sabalilag of the Victorias City PIO shared a testimony on the role of Barangay Information Officers.

The elected officers are Dina Michelle Callejas, president; Paul Servano of the Bureau of Fire Protection–Bacolod City, vice president; Alaine Noelle Borja of the PIO–Negros Occidental, secretary; Bea Liza Fortaleza of the PEMO–Negros Occidental, assistant secretary; Zapphire Romero of the Department of Public Works and Highways–Negros Occidental 1st District, treasurer; Rian Trinidad of Cadiz City, assistant treasurer; Maverick Misajon of the National Food Authority, auditor; Bernard Susbilla of the Philippine Information Agency–Negros Occidental, chairman of the board of trustees; and members of the board of trustees Noel Mondragon of San Carlos City (District 1), Helen Cutillar of Sagay City (District 2), Chuck Diaz of Talisay City (District 3), Ace Balboa of Bago City (District 4), Remuel Lajo of the Municipality of La Castellana (District 5), Kenneth Perez of the Municipality of Hinoba-an (District 6), and Angelo Angolo of the Lone District of Bacolod City.