NTF-ELCAC honors media champs for national comms excellence

November 25, 2024

The National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Wednesday shone a spotlight on the remarkable contribution of 20 communicators, advocates, and media partners (CAMP) to a national communication initiative, focused on combating misinformation and bolstering national unity.

The first-ever CAMP awards, presented by the NTF-LCAC’s Strategic Communications Cluster, underscore the pivotal role of media in fortifying our country's resilience against national security threats.

National Security Council Secretary Eduardo Año, in his speech, detailed the government's evolving national security strategy, emphasizing proactive engagement to prevent terror grooming or the process of manipulating and indoctrinating individuals into extremist groups.

Año stressed the urgent need for comprehensive education and awareness programs to equip communities with the skills to recognize and oppose radicalization attempts.

"We must equip our youth, educators, and communities with the tools to identify and reject attempts at radicalization. They must understand how to spot manipulation and reject the poisonous narratives of terrorism," he said.

Meanwhile, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director, Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., lauded media partners and underscored their vital role in building a more resilient and informed nation.

"The partnership between the government and media is indispensable in our efforts to promote peace, security, and national development,” Torres said, underscoring NTF-ELCAC's strategic shift towards a more civilian-focused approach and emphasizing unity, peace, and development.

In his speech on "Media as Partner for Change," Dr. Joel Sy Egco, head of the Integrated Communications Operations Center (ICOC) and Media Bureau, reiterated the increasingly crucial government-media partnership in achieving national goals.

"This collaboration is essential for countering misinformation and empowering marginalized communities," Egco said.

Highlighting the power of media to shape narratives and foster constructive dialogue, he said, "The responsibility you hold as journalists, communicators, and advocates has never been more vital. Your work not only informs but transforms society by reinforcing trust within our communities."

Awardees

The esteemed group of awardees encompassed various media professionals and organizations who exemplified excellence and dedication in their respective fields.

Among the individuals recognized were Marine Retired Major General Edgard Arevalo of Manila Times; Chito Lozada and Jing Villamente of Daily Tribune; Marc Santos Gamboa representing Models of Manila; Lydia Bueno of Remate; Doris Franche-Borja of Pilipino Star Ngayon; Joey Venancio of Police Files Tonite; and Allan Bergonia of Abante.

Prominent media organizations like the Philippine Daily Inquirer, ABS-CBN, GMA Network, Inc., Philippine News Agency, Sonshine Media Network International, Defense Press Corps, Philippine Information Agency, Radio Television Malacañang, Malacañang Press Corps, and Philippine National Police Press Corps were acknowledged for their outstanding contributions.

Notably, government agencies were also recognized for their significant roles, including the Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s Public Affairs and Communication Service.

The awards ceremony, part of a two-day workshop focused on counterterrorism strategic communications strategies, culminated with a renewed commitment to collaborative efforts between the government and media, ensuring a more peaceful and prosperous Philippines through continued information campaigns and community engagement.

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Dr. Joel M. Sy Egco, PhD, MPSA

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