00:00The members of the SOC-SARGENT are under training to provide timely and accurate information and knowledge
00:09regarding the implementation of peace.
00:12This is Steven Patron of the PIA-SOC-SARGENT for Central Nang Balita.
00:1830 media practitioners in the SOC-SARGENT region
00:22have gathered in General Santos City for a media orientation regarding the news of the government's peace initiatives.
00:30This was led by the Philippine Information Agency or PIA
00:33and the Office of the Presidential Advisor on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity or OPAPRU.
00:39This is a two-day activity that discusses the role of the media as the initiator of the conflict transformation.
00:46This is the essence of the transformation program.
00:51We all need to transform our mindsets.
00:56The security sector should not be the only one asking,
01:00how is the conflict situation?
01:03Maybe the LGOs should be the ones asking
01:06when we are the ones looking for solutions.
01:09Our office will heighten our advocacy in orienting and raising the awareness of these LCOs
01:17that they should not be afraid anymore.
01:19And they are the ones we are putting as the front line in the peace campaign.
01:25The so-called assistance was provided by the effort of the media
01:30to enhance their participation in the government's actions.
01:35The media's role in the success of OPAPRU's transformation program is crucial
01:41as it helps amplify the voices of those involved
01:46and highlights the progress and challenges in the peace process.
01:51And we are happy that we have been invited to this program together with the PIA and the OPAPRU.
01:58It is a big help for us,
02:00especially for the Isangkot, Tabatog province that also has conflict-affected areas.
02:04And we were able to reach the OPAPRU and our concerns.
02:09In maintaining peace,
02:11the media is one of the most important roles
02:15in delivering the truth, right and credible news for the benefit of every community.
02:21Stephen Patro, PIA SOC Surgeon, for Pambansang TV in Bagong, Philippines.
