(Photo courtesy of PIA)
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) has urged media practitioners and government information officers to strengthen coordinated communication efforts to sustain peace and security gains in Calabarzon and combat misinformation.
PIA Calabarzon Regional Head Ma. Cristina Arzadon emphasized the importance of accurate and responsible reporting in promoting peace initiatives and informing communities about government programs.
Speaking during a media briefing on the Localized Peace Engagement (LPE) and Transformation Program (TP) in Laguna on September 29, Arzadon said strategic communication has helped reshape the region’s image from an area affected by armed conflict and recruitment activities to one recognized for improved peace and security.
“For decades, the narrative of Calabarzon was defined by conflict. Today, through a whole-of-society effort and the power of strategic, unified communication, we share a completely different reality: Calabarzon is under a Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status,” Arzadon said.
Calabarzon received its SIPS declaration on June 12 through the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC).
Arzadon noted that government communication efforts have expanded beyond presenting statistics and program accomplishments to highlighting the experiences of individuals and communities benefiting from peacebuilding initiatives.
Among these are the Transformation Program and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provide former combatants with opportunities to reintegrate into society and establish sustainable livelihoods.
She cited former combatants in Antipolo City, Rizal, who have become community leaders and are now participating in local development activities.
According to Arzadon, these developments demonstrate that peacebuilding involves not only addressing armed conflict but also creating opportunities for affected individuals to rebuild their lives.
She emphasized that responsible journalism plays a significant role in strengthening public understanding of peace programs and their impact on communities.
“By reporting these milestones with accuracy and depth, you built the public trust necessary for peace to take root,” she said.
Arzadon also linked the region’s improved peace and security situation to growing investor confidence, infrastructure development, and expanded educational opportunities.
The media briefing formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation among government agencies, journalists, and local stakeholders in promoting localized peace engagement and reintegration programs.
PIA reiterated the importance of factual, coordinated, and community-centered communication in maintaining public awareness and supporting long-term peace and development initiatives across Calabarzon.
