By: Alex Q. Galang
OLONGAPO CITY — The Olongapo City Police Office (OCPO) is strengthening coordination with Facebook group administrators and local media organizations to promote responsible information sharing and improve the flow of public safety updates in the community.
The dialogue was led by Olongapo City Police Office City Police Director Police Col. Deonido S. Maniago Jr. on Thursday, Sept. 24, at Camp Lt. Gen. Manuel F. Cabal in Barangay Barretto.
Among the media and community information platforms that participated were Central Luzon Gazette, Ang Pahayagan, K5 News FM Olongapo, and the Batang Gapo Facebook page.
The meeting focused on concerns involving social media posts, information dissemination and the rapid circulation of information on issues affecting Olongapo residents.
Police officials and participants discussed the importance of maintaining open communication and coordination, particularly when dealing with information that quickly spreads through Facebook groups and other online platforms.
Col. Maniago underscored the role of media organizations and Facebook administrators in providing residents with timely information and helping facilitate public discussion on community concerns.
The police office also emphasized the importance of accurate, timely and responsible information sharing, particularly for posts involving public safety, police operations and other matters that may affect the community.
Photo by: Marti Dumaguing
The dialogue provided an opportunity for participating media organizations and social media administrators to raise concerns, exchange views and clarify matters related to the dissemination of information online.
Col. Maniago said stronger engagement with media practitioners and social media administrators would help establish more effective communication channels while promoting responsible use of digital platforms.
The initiative comes as Facebook pages, groups and local media platforms continue to serve as major sources of information for residents, particularly during incidents and other developments requiring immediate public attention.
The OCPO said it will continue engaging various sectors of the community to strengthen information coordination, promote responsible social media use and support public safety efforts in Olongapo.