PAPI Courtesy Call Strengthens Ties with Aklan Leaders

KALIBO, AKLAN – A meaningful and productive courtesy call was held between the officers of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) and key leaders of Aklan, further strengthening collaboration between the media sector and local government units.

Leading the delegation were PAPI Chairman Nelson S. Santos and PAPI Vice President for Visayas Giecel Toriano-Albar, who engaged in discussions with Aklan’s top officials on media partnership, public information dissemination, and community development.

The delegation was warmly received by prominent Aklan leaders including Kalibo Municipal Mayor Hon. Juris Bautista Sucro and Vice Mayor Hon. Phillip Yerro Kimpo Jr., who both expressed their support for responsible journalism and strengthened media relations in the municipality.

Also present were 1st District Representative Hon. Jesus “Papa Jess” R. Marquez and former Congressman Carlito S. Marquez, whose presence underscored the importance of unified leadership in advancing Aklan’s development agenda. Representing the Provincial Government, Honorable Governor Jose Enrique “Joen” Miraflores extended his support through Provincial Administrator Atty. Selwyn Ibarreta, highlighting the province’s commitment to transparency and cooperation with media organizations. Malay Municipal Mayor Frolibar “Fromy” Bautista was also in attendance, further demonstrating a collective commitment among Aklan officials to foster open communication with the media.

The courtesy call also served as part of the preparations for the upcoming 2026 PAPI Midyear Conference, which will be held in Kalibo and Boracay from June 24 to 27, 2026. The event is expected to gather media practitioners from across the country, providing a platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and strengthening the role of community journalism in national development.

Overall, the courtesy call served as a platform to discuss future collaborations, strengthen institutional relationships, and reaffirm the shared goal of promoting truth, accountability, and development through responsible journalism. This initiative reflects PAPI’s continuing mission to build strong partnerships with local government units across the country, ensuring that accurate information reaches communities and empowers citizens. (PAPI Team)