WHEN data gathering, it would be best for broadcasters and even print journalists to always go in pairs to ensure their safety.
Fr. Roberto Ebisa, president of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP)-Cebu Chapter, said that safety should remain a priority amidst threats on mediamen.
“While we want the truth to come out, please stay safe and don’t court danger,” Ebisa said.
Ebisa said that while Cebu journalist continue to strive to deliver information to their listeners and readers, it cannot be avoided that some of them have already started to express fear for their security.
In case of threats, Ebisa told fellow broadcasters to always bring the matter to the attention of their station managers.
He said Cebuanos broadcasters should not also forget to pray.
“Always be careful in seeking for the truth especially when the issue is hot (controversial).”
While there is the feeling of fear, Ebisa said that broadcasters should continue to be a force to reckon with.
“Today, we need passionate broadcasters who will continue their mission through good times and bad times,” he said in a message which he delivered during Sunday’s opening program of this year’s KBP month celebration that was held at the University of San Carlos (USC) main gym.
On Sunday broadcasters coming from 20 different radio stations in Cebu gathered at the USC main campus gym to celebrate camaraderie.
Those present included broadcasters coming from radio stations dyRB, dyRC, Bombo Radyo, dyHP, W Rock FM, Love Radio Cebu, Win Radio, Retro Cebu, Energy FM, and Yes FM among others.
The day’s gathering started with a parade along Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City to the USC main gym.
Ebisa said that this year, four teams participated in the basketball tournament which they organized to form part of the KBP month celebration.
Meanwhile, John Vincent Suya from Yes the Best FM and Mitch Dalayogo of Bombo Radyo Cebu were crowned Mr. and Ms. KBP 2018.
Suya and Dalayogo will represent broadcasters during the Mr. and Ms. Press Freedom competition scheduled on September 15.
The KBP is a broadcast regulating body that promotes ethical standards in both radio and television broadcasting. /Delta Dyrecka Letigio, USJ-R Intern