Since it was launched last year, the Philippine Information Agency's "Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas" forum has more than fulfilled its goal of keeping Filipinos informed with government programs and initiatives.
It has also served as a vehicle for the public, through local media in Laguna province, to address issues and grievances to the officials of various government agencies who attend the forums.
Recently, the PIA's Calabarzon Information Center has partnered with SM Supermalls to further bring the "Kapihan" closer to the public.
Last March 20, PIA Calabarzon launched the first episode of the "PIA Calabarzon: Ugnayan at Talakayan sa Laguna" at SM City Calamba, with officials from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Laguna Economic Development and Investments Promotions Office (LEDIPO) as its maiden guests.
Local media partners, including OpinYon Laguna, were able to discuss with DTI and LEDPIO various issues and concerns regarding the agencies' push for the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province.
In her speech during the event SM City Calamba mall manager Evelyn Verzola recognized the vital role that Kapihan plays to disseminate timely and accurate information to a new local demographic.
“We gather as we take part, learn, and discuss key issues that are important not only to our community but to our nation, as a whole,” Verzola pointed out.
She then enjoined participants and audiences of the forum to become even more engaged, especially when government agencies discuss their key programs.
“Kapihan sa PIA CALABARZON is an opportunity to foster collaboration, strengthen partnerships, and exchange valueable insights that can help us continue to serve our public effectively,” the mall manager added.
The succeeding monthly episodes of the Ugnayan at Talakayan sa Laguna will be held in other SM malls in the province of Laguna.
Media practitioners and the public are advised to follow the PIA's official social media pages for updates.
(With report from PIA)
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