By Nimfa L. Estrellado Mayor Mark Alcala addresses broadcast and print journalists during the Annual Media Assembly hosted by the Lucena Cit...
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Mayor Mark Alcala addresses broadcast and print journalists during the Annual Media Assembly hosted by the Lucena City government on December 17, 2025. (Darcie De Galicia) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Broadcast and print journalists attended the Annual Media Assembly on December 17, 2025, hosted by the Lucena City government. City officials and media practitioners convened for the gathering, which underscored professionalism, mutual respect, and public trust.
In his message, Mayor Mark Alcala said the city government continues to recognize the role of media, regardless of political season or differing viewpoints. He said the local government makes an effort to understand where journalists are coming from and values open communication.
“Ginagawa po talaga namin ang best namin para maintindihan kung saan nanggagaling ang media,” Alcala said. “Whether political season man o hindi, iba-iba po ang sides ng kuwento na sinusubukan naming unawain.” “Mahalaga po sa amin ang bukas na komunikasyon at paggalang sa trabaho ninyo.”
Alcala stressed that political colors should not define personal relationships, especially during gatherings that set aside politics and focus on shared respect. He said every Christmas offers an opportunity to come together as individuals, regardless of past elections or professional roles.
“Whether kung ano ang kulay ang sinusuportahan natin sa political season, it doesn’t matter,” Alcala said. “Every Christmas, kapag nandito po kayo sa atin, we treat you as a regular person outside of your work, outside of your profession.” “Kaibigan po namin kayo, at pagkatapos ng eleksyon, everyone is welcome at bukas ang pamahalaan ng Lucena para sa lahat.”
The mayor urged journalists to remain fair and accurate in delivering information, particularly amid the fast spread of unverified content. He reminded media practitioners to fact-check, complete their stories, and present all sides before releasing reports to the public.
“So sana po, iba tayong mga media dito sa Lucena, bago natin i-deliver ang mensahe, fact-check muna at kumpletuhin ang kuwento,” Alcala said. “Kailangan kumpleto ang variables at hindi agad nagko-conclude para tama ang simbolo na nakikita ng mga tao.” “Hindi po natin kinukulayan ang istorya sa gusto lang nating ipalabas—dapat nasa gitna lang tayo ng kuwento.”
Alcala also raised concerns about the influence of social media, especially on young audiences, citing the lack of restrictions and mediation online. He said this makes responsible journalism more important than ever in shaping public understanding.
He emphasized that professional reporting helps protect communities from misinformation and misleading narratives. Alcala called on media workers to uphold ethical standards and balance in every story they publish or broadcast.
The mayor expressed gratitude to the media community for its continued engagement with the city government and participation in the annual gathering. He said the event reflects mutual respect between the government and the press, which he described as essential to good governance.
Alcala extended Christmas greetings and expressed appreciation to media practitioners, with grocery gifts distributed during the gathering. In a final message, he said the media plays a vital role in delivering accurate information and serving the public interest.
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