FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army, reinforced its commitment to responsible public information and strategic communication by bringing together journalists, media practitioners, vloggers, digital content creators, and military communicators during the Media Engagement and Fellowship 2026 held at the 7ID Kaugnay Officers’ Club House on June 27.

With the theme “Strengthening Partnership for Responsible Public Information and Strategic Communication,” the event highlighted the enduring collaboration between the Philippine Army and the media in promoting transparency, accountability, and the timely dissemination of accurate information across Central Luzon and parts of Northern Luzon.

Media representatives from Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Bataan, and Pangasinan participated in the gathering, underscoring the importance of a strong communication network in fostering an informed, resilient, and united public.

Representing Colonel Jerald L. Reyes, Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations (G7), Major Brian J. Malinao welcomed the participants and emphasized the vital role of the media as partners in nation-building. He said responsible journalism anchored on truth, accuracy, and integrity strengthens public trust, promotes institutional transparency, and contributes to peace, development, and national resilience.

The symposium featured presentations on communication best practices from various 7ID units, providing a venue for military communicators and media partners to harmonize public information initiatives and strengthen collaboration in delivering timely, relevant, and factual news.

One of the highlights of the event was a situational awareness briefing on the West Philippine Sea delivered by Lt. Col. Rogelio A. Dumbrigue Jr., Chief of the Division Public Affairs Office.

The presentation provided participants with updates on current developments while emphasizing the importance of factual reporting, media literacy, and responsible information sharing in promoting informed public discourse and supporting the country’s sovereignty and national interests.

The activity also featured the oath-taking ceremony of new members of the One Fort Magsaysay Media, Inc. (OFMMI), presided over by its President, Jason de Asis of TV5 and the Philippine News Agency. The induction welcomed new media practitioners and vloggers from across Central Luzon, as well as a new member from Pangasinan, further strengthening the organization’s growing network. This was followed by the OFMMI Board Meeting to discuss future collaborative programs between the media and the Philippine Army.

Another highlight was the presentation of Teatro Kaugnay, the 7ID’s theater advocacy program, by Capt. Ralph Andy L. Ranario. He introduced the initiatives of 7ID Commander Maj. Gen. Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte and announced upcoming performances in Bataan and Fort Magsaysay under the theme “Liyab ng Pagmamahal sa Bayan,” aimed at promoting patriotism, nationalism, and civic responsibility through the performing arts.

The fellowship concluded with an open forum that allowed military leaders and media practitioners to exchange insights, address communication concerns, and identify opportunities for stronger collaboration. During the discussion, One Fort Magsaysay Media President Jason de Asis emphasized that the partnership between the media and the Armed Forces is more important than ever in combating misinformation and ensuring the public receives accurate, balanced, and responsible information.

De Asis also underscored the media’s responsibility to uphold truth, accuracy, fairness, and professionalism in every report while helping raise public awareness on significant national issues, including developments in the West Philippine Sea. He stressed that factual and responsible journalism plays a vital role in strengthening national unity, promoting informed citizenship, and protecting the country’s sovereignty and national interests.

Delivering the keynote message on behalf of 7ID Commander Maj. Gen. Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, Assistant Division Commander for Operations Col. Racii Alejandro G. Sotto emphasized that safeguarding peace, strengthening national unity, and promoting informed citizenship are shared responsibilities of both the military and the media.

“In today’s dynamic information environment, credible journalism and responsible strategic communication remain essential pillars in building public confidence, preserving democratic values, and fostering national solidarity,” Sotto said.

He encouraged both sectors to continue innovating, collaborating, and upholding the highest standards of professionalism to ensure that every story contributes to a more informed, resilient, and united Filipino nation.

The event concluded with a fellowship dinner and a performance by Teatro Kaugnay, symbolizing the strong partnership between the Philippine Army and the media in advancing truth, transparency, peace, and national development. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)

📸: FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army, brought together journalists, media practitioners, vloggers, and military communicators during the Media Engagement and Fellowship 2026 to strengthen partnerships for responsible public information and strategic communication. The activity also featured the oath-taking of new One Fort Magsaysay Media, Inc. members, reaffirming the shared commitment to truthful, ethical, and responsible journalism. (Photos courtesy of 7^th ID via Jason de Asis)