Journalists, media practitioners, vloggers, and military communicators gather at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, for the Media Engagement and Fellowship 2026 hosted by the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army. The event strengthened collaboration in promoting responsible public information and strategic communication while highlighting the oath-taking of new members of One Fort Magsaysay Media, Inc., reaffirming their shared commitment to truthful, ethical, and responsible journalism.
FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army strengthened its partnership with journalists, media practitioners, vloggers, digital content creators, and military communicators during the Media Engagement and Fellowship 2026 held at the 7ID Kaugnay Officers’ Club House on June 27.
With the theme “Strengthening Partnership for Responsible Public Information and Strategic Communication,” the activity highlighted the vital role of the media and the military in promoting transparency, combating misinformation, and ensuring the timely dissemination of accurate information.
Media representatives from Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Bataan, and Pangasinan participated in the gathering, reaffirming their commitment to responsible journalism and public service.
Representing Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations (G7) Colonel Jerald L. Reyes, Major Brian J. Malinao emphasized that responsible journalism founded on truth, accuracy, and integrity strengthens public trust and contributes to peace, development, and national resilience.
A key highlight of the event was a situational awareness briefing on the West Philippine Sea delivered by Division Public Affairs Office Chief Lt. Col. Rogelio A. Dumbrigue Jr., who underscored the importance of factual reporting and responsible information sharing in promoting informed public discourse and protecting national interests.
The activity also featured the oath-taking of new members of One Fort Magsaysay Media, Inc. (OFMMI), led by its president, Jason de Asis of TV5 and the Philippine News Agency, further expanding the organization’s network of media partners across Central Luzon.
Delivering the keynote message on behalf of 7ID Commander Maj. Gen. Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, Assistant Division Commander for Operations Col. Racii Alejandro G. Sotto said that safeguarding peace and promoting informed citizenship are shared responsibilities of both the military and the media.
“In today’s dynamic information environment, credible journalism and responsible strategic communication remain essential pillars in building public confidence and fostering national solidarity,” Sotto said.
The event concluded with a fellowship and a performance by Teatro Kaugnay, reaffirming the enduring partnership between the Philippine Army and the media in advancing truth, transparency, peace, and national development. (Jason De Asis)