By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos | Philippine News Agency
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez on Wednesday urged the state-run Philippine News Agency (PNA) to pursue innovative journalism, as he lauded its “transparent and credible” coverage of government policies and programs.
In a message delivered during the PNA’s 53rd anniversary celebration at the PIA Building in Quezon City, Secretary Gomez acknowledged the agency’s crucial role in delivering accurate and timely news to both local and international readers.
Gomez said in a message delivered by PCO Undersecretary Mon Ilagan, “The PNA was established to serve as a reliable, timely, and professional source of news for Filipinos at home and across the globe. Today, you stand taller, wiser, and more committed than ever to that founding vision.”
He commended PNA reporters for their dedication to covering the country’s most pressing stories, from typhoons and pandemics to historic elections, as well as for bringing the experiences of Filipinos from the farthest islands into the national conversation.
The PCO chief also expressed gratitude to the editors, photographers, and support staff, noting that their commitment to delivering news beyond working hours, pursuit of truth, and integrity serve as “the heartbeat of the PNA.”
Sec. Gomez added, “In an age where misinformation spreads at the touch of a finger, the PNA’s role has never been more vital. You remain steadfast in your mandate: to deliver facts without fear or favor, to amplify the voices of ordinary Filipinos, and to strengthen the bond between government and the governed through transparent, credible reporting.”
He also recognized the agency’s digital transformation, citing its website, social media presence and real-time updates that have made Philippine stories accessible to millions of readers worldwide.
The PCO chief said PNA’s innovative efforts show that “quality journalism can thrive in the digital era. From its early days under challenging circumstances, the PNA has evolved into a modern, dynamic wire service. You have weathered political shifts, technological revolutions, and global crises—always adapting, always striving to uphold the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and public service.”
He urged the state-run news agency to continue embracing innovation, ethical journalism, and inclusive storytelling to reflect the diversity, resilience, and hope of Filipinos.
‘Reliable’ source of news
Meanwhile, Andrey Kondrashov, director general of Russian news agency TASS, also conveyed his congratulatory message to the entire PNA team on its foundation anniversary, praising the agency as a “reliable and principled source of news.”
Kondrashov said, “The anniversary highlights the outstanding role PNA plays as a crucial part of both the national and global information landscape.”
He added, lauding PNA’s in-depth coverage of key political, economic, social, and cultural developments for Filipinos and the global audience, “During its history, PNA has established itself as a vital provider of accurate and timely news.”
Kondrashov expressed confidence that PNA would continue to uphold the highest standards of journalism and make a significant contribution to shaping a “balanced and objective information environment.”
PNA operates under the PCO and functions as the official channel for disseminating government news, policies, and programs.
It provides national and regional news coverage, with stories accessible through its official website and social media channels. (PNA)
