CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Two nominees from Central Luzon were conferred with the first-ever Bayanihan Media Awards (BMA).
These include Thony Arcenal under the Online Media—Individual Category, and Pampanga News Now under the Online Media—Organization Category.
According to the BMA National Screening Committee, Arcenal, who is widely recognized for his contributions, has left a substantial mark in the field of volunteerism through his dedicated work on News on C’s online media platform.
As a consistent contributor, he has authored a minimum of 20 articles during the search period alone from August 2022 to July 2023, spotlighting diverse and impactful volunteering initiatives by various groups and organizations.
He has also become a source of inspiration and information, highlighting the altruistic acts of kindness and service that individuals and organizations undertake to create a positive impact.
Meanwhile, Pampanga News Now, an online news portal born during the challenging times of March 2020, has swiftly evolved into a significant source of information and inspiration.
Despite being relatively new, the platform has made a notable impact, featuring approximately 40 articles on volunteerism during the search period alone. With each article attracting 600 to 3000 views/hits, Pampanga News Now has effectively connected with a substantial online audience.
These articles not only inform the community about ongoing volunteer efforts but also serve as a source of inspiration for readers.
In his message, Civil Service Commission Chairperson and National Volunteer Month Honorary Chairperson Karlo Alexei Nograles stressed that the power of media in influencing societal perspectives and their role in amplifying the importance of volunteerism is invaluable.
“In the fast-paced world of media, your commitment of shedding light on the selfless acts of volunteers is truly commendable. Let it be said that your story telling has not only showcased the impact of volunteerism but has also served as a catalyst for others to join the noble cause. Through your lens and your word, you have brought attention to the unsung heroes in our communities, thus motivating others to step forward and make a difference,” he said.
With this, Nograles hoped that in the coming years, more members of the media will continue to showcase the spirit of volunteerism which is innate in every Filipino, as he cited that volunteerism is an expression of people’s innate humanity and a testament to their shared values as a society.
For his part, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the BMA is all about acknowledging the media’s immense contributions to shaping a culture of volunteerism through their impactful stories and story-telling.
“The media, with its influential reach and story-telling prowess, serves as a powerful ally in promoting the spirit of volunteerism. By amplifying the narratives of volunteers, the media becomes a catalyst for inspiring others to join this noble cause,” he said.
Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director-General Jose Torres Jr., who is also the Chairperson of the BMA, lauded the awardees for embodying the true spirit of generosity and kindness and for their selfless effort and dedication which not only made a difference but have also ignited a positive ripple effect in their communities.
“We want to acknowledge and appreciate the passion and enthusiasm of our friends from the media who write impactful stories, create images and voices that have amplified the essence of volunteerism through their work. Their storytelling has amplified the beauty of selfless service and we thank them for being champions of compassion and community engagement. Their dedication to showcasing the power of giving back not only inspired but also sparked a collective sense of responsibility towards creating positive change,” he said.
The BMA aims to commend media practitioners and organizations for their exemplary contribution and dedication to promoting volunteerism and its importance to national development, which encourages the public to make volunteerism a way of life.
The Awards Program is a collaborative effort involving the PNVSCA, PIA, Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges, and Mariano Marcos State University.
Source: PIA 3
