MAASIN CITY– A top official of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in Eastern Visayas urged police officers to exercise caution in sharing information during crises to prevent the escalation of secondary crises.
“In crises, we have to deal with the media; we have to handle and manage them properly in divulging information,” said Reyan L. Arinto, PIA-8 regional head, during a lecture on Crisis Communication for law enforcers on June 20 at the old DPWH Function Hall.
The provincial Philippine National Police leadership invited Arinto to be one of the speakers for a seminar on basic news writing and social media management.
In his hour-long talk, Arinto encouraged the police officers to maintain positive working relationships with the local media and be readily available for interviews on radio stations or in print publications.
In addition, humanitarian outreach programs could support the police in educating people at the community level and helping them better understand law enforcement perspectives.
Arinto said it’s important to provide updates without revealing sensitive information that could compromise peace, order, and security.
During a simulated press conference about a bomb explosion, the police chief calmly gave limited but accurate information to facilitate immediate reporting.
Police officers from different field stations listen attentively as PIA Regional Head Reyan Arinto provides training on handling inquisitive or adversarial media during crises. (Photo: PIA-8)
Lyna Gayas, administrative and information officer of the Department of Education – Southern Leyte Division, and Ronald O. Reyes, Manila Standard and Sun Star Philippines correspondent, also shared their expertise.
Police chiefs and social media handlers from PNP field units across the province attended the event. (AAC/MMP, PIA Southern Leyte)
