Journalists propose online press briefing

By Alex A. Lumaque

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Governor Esteban Evan B. Contreras welcomed the suggestion to conduct online media briefings rather than the traditional media interaction as a way to limit interpersonal contact and gatherings amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

The proposal was conveyed by radio reporter Tara Tania Daero during an emergency press conference on March 31, 2020 to announce the three new confirmed COVID-19 cases in the province.

“That is well-taken and even in our succeeding meetings we plan to do it via teleconferencing to prevent the spread of the virus,” Contreras said.

Provincial Health Office (PHO) Public Information Officer and press conference moderator Ayr Altavas supported the idea “to lessen the opportunity of spreading the virus.”

Daero noted that journalists, being frontliners in mass communication, are very susceptible to COVID-19 and a way to limit the hazard is finding ways to gather news with less physical presence.

Aside from press releases to disseminate official statements, the PHO and Contreras gather media for COVID-19 updates, announcements and advisories.

The province has already registered four COVID-19 confirmed cases with one mortality as of March 31. (PIA)