By CESAR JOLITO III
The Negros Press Club (NPC), the longest-running press club in the Philippines, is celebrating its 90th year since its founding in 1936 as it ushered in a new set of officers during its induction ceremony in Bacolod City on Friday night, April 24.
Newly elected NPC President Primrose Tejida of RMN dyHB 747 Bacolod formally took the helm, along with Lourd John Diaz as vice president, Maureen Soliguen as secretary, Nona Magbanua as treasurer, and Merlinda Pedrosa as auditor.
Inducted as members of the Board of Directors were Panay News Bacolod senior reporter Mae Singuay, Eden Aboso, Chito Berjit, and Red Salgado.
Among those inducted were Watchmen Daily Journal multimedia reporter Cesar Jolito III, Theresa Dulman, Mia Mae Francisco, Fleurdelyn Palmares, Remark de Asis, Niña Erika Domanais, Maxine Barrientos, Kevin Barrientos, Richard Caballero, Radi Garaygay, and Fred Caña.
Serving as guest of honor and speaker, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla underscored the critical role of the media in shaping public opinion and strengthening democratic institutions.
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, in his message, emphasized the enduring responsibility of journalists as “stewards of information and guardians of truth,” especially in an era marked by rapid information flow and the spread of misinformation.
“As we celebrate 90 years of the Negros Press Club, we also honor a legacy of integrity, service and commitment to truth,” Lacson said, urging the new officers to lead with purpose and uphold the highest standards of journalism.
Also present during the ceremony were Philippine National Police chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., Trade Secretary Ma. Christina Roque, Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya, Bago City Mayor Marina Javellana-Yao, La Castellana Mayor Añejo Nicor, and Provincial Board Members Nicholas Yulo and Paula Alonso.
The ceremony marked a milestone for the NPC as it continues its nine-decade legacy of promoting press freedom and professional journalism in Negros./CJ, WDJ