By PIA-Bohol | 07:40 PM February 19, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol —The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 7 has enjoined the newly inducted officers of the Association of United Development Information Officers (Audio) -Bohol to uphold integrity and professionalism as frontliners in government communication.
During the oath-taking ceremony, PIA-7 Regional Head Fayette Riñen underscored the responsibility of information officers to combat misinformation and deliver clear, accurate, and timely updates to the public. She stressed that credible communication is key to fostering transparency, accountability, and stronger community engagement.
“Even if we cannot please everyone, there are people whose lives we touched and made better because we care and we did our role as government communicator,” Riñen said.
She emphasized that while challenges are inevitable, unity and a shared sense of purpose can turn these into opportunities to better serve communities.
“Please bear in mind that you are given a privilege to lead the organization – and level it up when it comes to making a difference in the lives of people — through the timely, relevant and accurate information you share,” she said.
IOs crucial role in the digital age
Riñen also underscored the responsibility of public information officers (PIOs) in digital age, where misinformation and distorted facts can easily spread online.
“When fake news becomes accepted as truth, what kind of environment are we creating for the next generation?” she said, urging information officers to promote credible and verified information.
She added that individual efforts may seem small, but collective action as an organization can create meaningful impact.
“That’s why the role of a public information officer should never be taken lightly. Doing your job alone may not leave a strong mark, but as an organization, you can definitely make a forceful impact,” she added.
New set of Audio-Bohol officers
Dr. Doris Isabel Racho, information officer of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) Region 7, was re-elected president of Audio-Bohol.
Other officers are: Khem Pendejito of the municipal government of Garcia Hernandez, vice president for local government units; Zarline Sambas of National Irrigation Administration-7, vice president for national government agencies; Imee Raut of LGU Lila, Secretary; Elvira Bongosia of Philippine Information Agency, assistant secretary; Rosario Chatto of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Treasurer; Sherwin Viva of Government Service Insurance System, Assistant Treasurer; and Jed Ighot of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Auditor.
Elected as press relation officers were Leonardo Cirujales of Pag-IBIG Fund (first district), Rebecca Tradio of LGU Buenavista (second district), and Shella Mae Gumatay of LGU Duero (third district).
The new set of officers will lead the association for the next three years.
Renewed commitment
Racho said the new term marks a renewed commitment to the organization’s mission.
“Today marks not just the beginning of another calendar year, but the start of a renewed commitment to our mission as development information officers,” she said.
“Leadership in Audio is not merely a title – it is a responsibility to serve, to initiate, to collaborate, and to inspire. As officers, we are entrusted with guiding this organization with integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” she added.
Audio-Bohol will host the 27th Regional Association of Development Information Officers (Radio) 7 convention in August, bringing together public information and tourism officers across the region.
Riñen urged members to work together to ensure a meaningful and productive gathering. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)
