Press Freedom Week kicks off

CEBU, Philippines -  Just like in previous years, media workers in Cebu hit the streets early morning yesterday to kick off the ce-lebration of Press Freedom Week, an annual event that highlights the role of the press in upholding democracy.  

Now on its 20th year, the event brings together media workers in a week-long series of fellowships that tackle issues affecting the industry and, on a lighter note, establish camaraderie among local practitioners.

Yesterday’s opening walk started at the Fuente Osmeña Circle, where historic protests against Martial Law were held, down to the University of San Carlos – South Campus, where a Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. Jonas Mejares, rector of the Basilica del Sto. Niño, at the cultural center. During his homily, Mejares focused on freedom as a precious gift from God.

“God is a just God. He is very loving and generous… Let us become what we ought to be… you should become what you ought to be. Work not only for reward but for the greater glory to God,” Mejares said.

It was also at the cultural center where groups representing the media organizations competed in song and dance. Performers representing the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas  bested the groups from Sun.Star-Superbalita (second place), The FREEMAN-Banat News (third place), and Cebu Daily News (fourth place).

Like in previous years, too, awards were given to the parade delegations. The Freeman – Banat News clinched the ‘early bird’ award while Sun.Star Cebu-Sun,Star Superbalita was recognized as ‘star of the parade’. They were judged according to “grandness” (40 percent), “liveliness” (30 percent), and “color” (30 percent).

Raffle prizes were also given out.

Last Saturday night, the yearly search for Mr. and Ms. Press Freedom was held with The FREEMAN making history with a grand slam win courtesy of its candidate, reporter Jean Marvette Demecillo. The FREEMAN’s two other reporters, Grace Lacamiento and Jessa Agua, won the crown in 2012 and 2013, respectively.

King Anthony Perez of TV5 Cebu who represented KBP was held Mr. Press Freedom this year.

First runners-up were Bjorn Tabanera of CDN and Princess Dawn Felicitas of Sunstar; Second runners-up were Richiel Chavez of Sun.Star and Apple Ta-as of CDN; and third runners –up were Jan Tirador of the KBP and John Destacamento of The FREEMAN.  (FREEMAN)