PAJ’s Binhi Awards set on Sept 27

The Philippine Agricultural Journalists Inc. (PAJ) will honor this year’s outstanding agricultural journalists during the 2003 Binhi Awards Night at the Plaridel Hall of the National Press Club on Sept. 27 starting at 7:30 p.m.

Winners will receive trophies, plaques and cash rewards in the following categories: Agricultural Journalist of the Year, Agri-Beat Reporter of the Year, Agricultural Newsletter of the Year and Agricultural Radio Program of the Year.

The awarding ceremonies form part of PAJ’s 27th Anniversary celebrations with the theme "Catalyzing Countrywide Modernization." It is also a celebration of the yearly "Agricultural Journalism Week" proclaimed by President Arroyo in September 2001.

In the words of the President, "Agriculture is one of the key components in winning the war against poverty. Greater public awareness of agriculture through agricultural journalism helps boost the development of Philippine agriculture. So, there is a need to focus more attention on the important role played by agricultural journalism in economic development."

PAJ officers led by its president, Roman Floresca are: Sanny Galvez, VP for internal affairs; Betsy Ison , VP for external affairs; Inez Magbual, treasurer; Ruby Lumongsod, secretary; Mathilde Maunahan, assistant secretary; Thelma Tolentino, auditor; Michael Alunan, business manager; Christine Gaylican, PRO; and directors Fermin Diaz, Ed Munsayac, Florecita Notario, Jennifer Ng, Noel Reyes and Gigi de Vera.

PAJ is one of the oldest media organizations in the country. Its pillars and members across the country can be found in newspapers, magazines, radio-TV organizations and private and government offices. Its advocacy of agricultural development runs parallel to its pursuit of beneficial initiatives to the plight of the toilers of the fields and seas.

The ideals of the organization are crystallized in the Binhi Awards, and the reading public will easily recognize in these awards the significant contribution of PAJ in promoting conscientious and committed journalism in areas often crowded out of the front pages by politics, coups, terrorism and entertainment. – RMAE