PRO8 strengthens police-media relations

By RPCRD, Police Regional Office 8
October 25, 2012

CAMP SEC. RUPERTO K. KANGLEON, Palo, Leyte  –  The Police Regional Office 8 have seen the need to revisit media relations in order to strengthen the organization’s relationship with the fourth estate.

Police Regional Director Police Chief Superintendent Elmer Ragadio Soria cited the importance of strengthening police relations with the media saying they are crucial communication partners not only during crisis but also in normal situations.

“The media acts in various ways – as watchdog, gatekeeper and instrument – to disseminate vital information and also to help strengthen and support government development undertakings so people may appreciate it and from which they can come up with informed decision.”, the police official said during the election for vacant position and induction of new officers of the PNP-8 Press Corps held at PRO8 Conference Room yesterday afternoon.

Broadcaster Rey Ledesma of dyDW Radyo Diwa-AM is the new Press Corps President following the rule-of-succession vice radioman Roy Tolibas who departed in a motorcycle accident last April while Marvin Modelo of dyBR-AM replaced Ledesma as Executive Vice President.

Soria pointed out the significance of continuous harmonious camaraderie and working relations between PRO8 and the local media.

“The symbiosis of the police and the media makes our jobs easier that will ultimately lead to a well-informed public. It is our duty to inform our clienteles since it is their right to know while the media plays a vital role because they serve as our extension in releasing information to the public,” according to the region’s top police official.

Soria also declared that the only way to promote a better relationship between the two organizations is to learn from each other. "It is by learning each other's ways and fostering greater understanding that we can promote a better relationship," he said.

The regional director also highlighted the importance of making the media a partner in its anti-criminality campaigns making it easier for the police to inform the public that the force is doing its job in making sure that law and order prevails.

“Police accomplishments supported by media reports on our successful operations always yield positive impressions from the community”, he said.