New AUDIO-Bohol leaders told to 

champion accurate information, unity

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA)--The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 7 has called on newly elected officers of the Association of United Development Information Officers (AUDIO)-Bohol told serve as champions of truth and responsible information following their recent induction in this city.

PIA-7 Regional Head Fayette C. Riñen, who administered the oath of office, reminded government communicators of their vital role in delivering timely, relevant and accurate information to the public.

“Even if we cannot please everyone, there are people whose lives we touched and made better because we care and we did our role as government communicator,” Riñen said.

She emphasized that while challenges are inevitable, unity and a shared sense of purpose can turn these into opportunities to better serve communities.

“Please bear in mind that you are given a privilege to lead the organization – and level it up when it comes to making a difference in the lives of people --- through the timely, relevant and accurate information you share,” she said.

IOs crucial role in the digital age

Riñen also underscored the responsibility of public information officers (PIOs) in digital age, where misinformation and distorted facts can easily spread online.

“When fake news becomes accepted as truth, what kind of environment are we creating for the next generation?” she said, urging information officers to promote credible and verified information.

She added that individual efforts may seem small, but collective action as an organization can create meaningful impact.

“That’s why the role of a public information officer should never be taken lightly. Doing your job alone may not leave a strong mark, but as an organization, you can definitely make a forceful impact,” she added.

New set of AUDIO-Bohol officers

Dr. Doris Isabel Racho, information officer of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) Region 7, was re-elected president of AUDIO-Bohol.

Other officers are: Khem M. Pendejito of LGU Garcia Hernandez, vice president for local government units; Zarline S. Sambas of National Irrigation Administration-7, vice president for national government agencies; Imee T. Raut of LGU Lila, Secretary; Elvira C. Bongosia of Philippine Information Agency, assistant secretary; Rosario O. Chatto of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Treasurer; Sherwin B. Viva of Government Service Insurance System, Assistant Treasurer; and Jed B. Ighot of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Auditor.

Elected as press relation officers were Leonardo C. Cirujales of Pag-IBIG Fund (first district), Rebecca C. Tradio of LGU Buenavista (second district), and Shella Mae P. Gumatay of LGU Duero (third district).

The new set of officers will lead the association for the next three years.

Renewed commitment

Racho said the new term marks a renewed commitment to the organization’s mission.

“Today marks not just the beginning of another calendar year, but the start of a renewed commitment to our mission as development information officers,” she said.

“Leadership in AUDIO is not merely a title – it is a responsibility to serve, to initiate, to collaborate, and to inspire. As officers, we are entrusted with guiding this organization with integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” she added.

AUDIO-Bohol will host the 27th Regional Association of Development Information Officers (RADIO) 7 convention in August, bringing together public information and tourism officers across the region.

Riñen urged members to work together to ensure a meaningful and productive gathering. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

PIA-7 Regional Head Fayette C. Riñen (outmost left) administered the oath of office of the newly elected officers of AUDIO-Bohol on February 13, 2026 at Reyna’s The Haven And Gardens in Tagbilaran City. The new officers will be steering the association to productive undertakings in the next three years. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)