PIA Trains Alicia Town’s Barangay Information Officers to Combat Misinformation

Philippine Information Agency Strengthens Grassroots Communication in Alicia to Combat Misinformation

In a significant move to bolster local information networks, the Philippine Information Agency Region 9 (PIA-9) has partnered with the Local Government Unit of Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay to reorganize and develop the capacity of Barangay Information Officers (BIOs) in the municipality.

The initiative, which recently culminated in the election of new officers for the Barangay Information Officers Network (BION), aims to create a more robust system for disseminating accurate information at the grassroots level while combating the spread of misinformation.

“Proper information dissemination serves as a bridge between the people and the government. We let our people know that they have a role in shaping our community,” explained Johayra Gubat, Alicia’s Municipal Information Officer and Tourism Officer. She also committed to providing BION members with load allowances to ensure continuous communication and the timely flow of information from communities.

The reorganization reflects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s nationwide push to fight false information and ensure communities can distinguish between fact and fiction in an era of rampant misinformation.

Alicia Mayor Alvie Mussa Al-Hadj emphasized the strategic importance of BIOs in local governance, describing them as “the eyes and ears of the local government” who ensure residents receive accurate information and can actively participate in community development. “With their dedication, we can build a stronger, more informed community,” the mayor stated.

During the reorientation session, Government Information Center Coordinator (GICC) Jocelyn P. Alvarez underscored that BION officers are not merely messengers but pillars of accurate, transparent, and ethical communication. Their role extends beyond simple information delivery to becoming trusted partners in fostering community development through well-informed citizen participation.

The training program provided practical skills development for the newly appointed officers. Clennkei Peñalosa, GICC for Zamboanga del Sur, delivered hands-on guidance on crucial topics including social media etiquette, responsible online engagement, and the national “Maging Mapanuri” (Be Critical) campaign. These sessions equipped the officers with tools to identify and counter misinformation circulating in their communities.

Communication techniques were also a focus area, with PIA Assistant Regional Head Emmanuel Taghoy conducting sessions on professional communication through PowerPoint presentations. His training highlighted the importance of clarity, design principles, and persuasive delivery techniques when communicating government programs and initiatives to local residents.

“The Barangay Information Officers Network is not just a community resource—it is the frontline in ensuring that every resident has access to accurate, reliable, and timely information,” Taghoy said.

The BION initiative in Alicia represents a growing recognition of the critical role information plays in effective governance and community development. In rural and remote areas where access to mainstream media may be limited, BIOs serve as essential conduits for government information, policy updates, and emergency announcements.

Information officers at the barangay level are uniquely positioned to tailor communication approaches that resonate with local contexts and cultural nuances, making government messages more accessible and relevant to community members. This localized approach helps bridge potential gaps between national policies and local implementation.

The revitalized BION in Alicia now stands as a model for other municipalities, demonstrating how strengthened local communication networks can transform transparency into trust and information into community action.

For Alicia’s residents, the newly empowered BION officers represent more than just information providers—they have become community champions ensuring that every barangay understands its rights, responsibilities, and role in local governance. As the network continues to develop, it aims to create more informed citizens who can actively participate in community decision-making processes.

Through this initiative, Alicia and the PIA-9 are setting a standard for effective grassroots communication that other communities throughout the Philippines may soon follow.