(by MA. LUCY M. SINAY, City Information Officer, Iloilo City Government)
It has always been
said that information is power. This has never been truer in my job as I face
the challenge of ensuring that accurate information is disseminated to the Ilonggo
public in this time of global health crisis.
I have seen how vital it is to give the public correct information and provide them with legitimate sources of news so as not to unduly cause panic and fear.
While some people work from home under the new normal, I report to the office Monday to Friday, but do my work almost 24/7 as the flow of information from the City Government to the public should be unhampered. There are press releases to be written, announcements and policies to be posted, news and information to be fed to the media, and IEC materials to be made. There is also the conduct of either face-to-face or virtual press conferences with the City Mayor.
I believe if people are aware of things happening around them, then they can overcome their fear of COVID-19, become more responsible and selfless, and be more cooperative especially in complying with health protocols. People will also be empowered to make sound decisions regarding the health and safety of their families and communities. Elia Kazan wrote, "Whatever hysteria exists is inflamed by mystery, suspicion and secrecy. Hard and exact facts will cool it."
Apparently, hysteria is the enemy of this new normal. And the only way to subdue it is by fighting fear with facts.
No comments:
Post a Comment