Senator champions truth in journalism

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Senator Robinhood Padilla has called on the Negros Press Club members to persist in their commitment to fact-based journalism.

As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, Padilla addressed the club during the 88th Induction and Oath-Taking Ceremony for its 2024-25 officers and new members on Saturday.

He reflected on the difficulty of discerning truth in the flood of information, “Minsan hindi mo na alam kung alin yung totoo at yung hindi sa dami ng mga trolls sa social media.”

Padilla encouraged the country’s oldest press club to stay pertinent in the face of social media challenges. “Kung pag-uusapan natin ang mga isyu ngayon, hindi na totoong isyu ang nababasa natin, laganap na ang fake news,” he expressed with concern.

Regarding speculation about his political ambitions, Padilla downplayed the idea of a 2028 vice-presidential run: “Ang layo pa noon,” he remarked.

During the event, Senator Padilla officially inducted NPC President Erwin Delilan, while Representative Greg Gasataya administered the oath to the other officers.

In a generous gesture, Padilla contributed PHP 100,000 towards the club’s building renovations, which will be primarily overseen by Gasataya’s office.

Additionally, Padilla vowed to provide extra support to seven ailing and senior club members, complementing the PHP 100,000 fund from Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri.

Further supporting the club’s initiatives, Negros Grace Pharmacy’s Ian Lo pledged PHP 500,000 for its programs and projects.

Entertainment was provided by singer Ice Seguerra, who performed six songs, enhancing the ceremony’s festive atmosphere.

The evening concluded with a raffle draw, awarding cash prizes ranging from PHP 5,000 to PHP 10,000, and a grand prize of PHP 20,000.