• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The police and the media must strengthen their partnership to promote public safety, provide accurate information, and build greater public trust.
This was underscored by PBrig. Gen. Rudecindo Reales, director of Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region, in a fellowship dinner with Negros-based journalists and content creators Wednesday, Sept. 16 at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City.
He emphasized that peace and order is not only the responsibility of the police or government alone, but a shared responsibility in which the media plays a vital role.
“The police protect. The media informs,” Reales said, stressing that both institutions have a common responsibility to the communities they serve.
He said the partnership was l help prevent panic, counter misinformation, and protect lives.
“One accurate report can prevent panic. One verified piece of information can stop a rumor from becoming fear. One timely warning can keep a family away from danger,” Reales said.
He urged media practitioners to use their platforms to educate the public on crime prevention and public safety and to help ensure that verified information reaches communities during emergencies.
At the same time, Reales stressed that the partnership should not prevent journalists from asking difficult questions or scrutinizing police operations.
“Ask us. Challenge us. Hold us accountable,” he said, adding that a strong police organization should not be afraid of legitimate questions and scrutiny that can improve police service and strengthen public confidence.
Reales also committed the PRO-NIR to maintaining open communication with the media and providing timely and truthful information whenever possible while respecting the law, due process and the independence of the press.
He called for stronger relationships between police officers and journalists even outside crisis situations, saying regular communication and mutual understanding of their respective responsibilities can help build trust before emergencies occur.
“When crisis comes, trust becomes our greatest asset,” Reales said.
He noted that the police and media have different roles but share a common purpose — serving the public through truth, accountability, and responsible information.
“The police may carry the badge. The media may carry the story. But both carry a responsibility to the Filipino people,” he said. | GPB
