Public information officers (PIOs) from the Central Visayas region on Thursday vowed to intensify efforts to support the government’s campaign in safeguarding national interests and promoting peace and development for a sustainable tourism industry.

Recognizing their critical role in spreading truthful information to the public, a ceremonial signing of their commitment was held at the Negros Oriental Convention Center in this capital city on the second day of the 26th Regional Association of Development Information Officers in Region 7 or RADIO summit.

The RADIO 7 is the umbrella organization of the five PIO associations in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental and Siquijor.

Risty Villanueva, RADIO-7 president, who read the commitment of support, said the group recognizes that “a stable internal peace and order status is critical for the sustainable tourism development in Central Visayas.”

“We also recognize the importance of adopting sustainable initiatives and practicing responsible environmental stewardship to effectively preserve the region’s bountiful tourist attractions and rich cultural heritage,” he said.

The group also stressed that a “disaffection for nature and heritage” may impact the gains in tourism and other industries, adding that they support the DOT in “advancing sustainability in tourism”.

The group also vowed to disseminate accurate, relevant, and timely information on important advocacies to the public.

They also committed to fight dis/misinformation which they said posed a great threat to the gains of the government in achieving national peace and prosperity.

Also present during the event were tourism officers from the four provinces of Central Visayas and key officials from the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Department of Tourism. (PNA)