THESE days, the world is awash with fake news and false claims, often circulated on social media. It is down to the trusted media to be the source of accurate and fact-based information.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a powerful reminder of just how much we need credible journalism, especially in times of crisis. We in Panay News recognize that truthful, timely and accurate reporting in print and digital platforms help people understand the danger of the virus and how to contain its spread. That is why despite the prevailing unique challenges brought by the pandemic, we are here working for you – your trusted newspaper now marking its 39 years of service from the heart.
The novelty of COVID-19 creates an unwanted potential for the spread of rumors. Panay News recognizes that we in the media have a critical role to play in ensuring that people are kept up to date with reliable information on what is a rapidly evolving situation. We also believe that journalistic responsibility in the time of COVID-19 means holding authorities to account for their handling of this public health emergency.
As the virus spreads, so do the levels of anxiety around what people know and don’t know, who and what to trust, and how to stay safe – physically and mentally. This is why good journalism is more vital than ever. Accurate reporting and speaking truth to power is a must. If people needed more proof that journalism is a vital public service, they’re getting it now.
Of course, everybody is feeling the pinch, hit hard by the economic fallout of the novel coronavirus. In the media industry, advertising revenues are being squeezed as companies slash marketing budgets amidst financial uncertainty. And as the threat of COVID-19 spreads, we in the media must face up to the possibility, too, that we may end up being more than non-participant observers. We face a direct threat to our health and lives as well.
But we in Panay News choose to press on because we know how important it is for the public to be informed first, fast and right. Trust us. You have a courageous newspaper and a free press.
Of course, we have our fair share of critics, mostly those whose feathers we have ruffled in the interest of the public. But these challenges have only inspired us to do even better, to become an exponent of press freedom in this part of the country.
Aside from adding more pages for your reading pleasure, we have improved our digital edition (www.panaynews.net) and social media platforms (on Facebook and Twitter). We are keeping up with the times and the rapidly changing media landscape vis-à -vis the fast-paced developments in technology and telecommunications. We are now reaching a wider audience – Filipinos all over the world.
Thus with a mixture of humility and pride, with a sense of accomplishment and a purposeful vision of the future, we thank you, our millions of readers, advertisers, newspaper dealers, suppliers and friends for keeping us company all these years. Thank you for trusting us and for allowing us to take on your causes. Today, we renew once more our commitment to serve you – even better.
