The 6th Eastern Visayas Media Awards, organized by the Eastern Visayas Media Without Borders Inc., shined brightly as media professionals from across the region gathered to honor excellence in journalism. With 𝑩𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒓𝒂𝒏 𝑮𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒐𝒓 𝑹𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒐 𝑱. 𝑬𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒂 𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒖𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑺𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓, the event became not only an awards night—but a powerful reaffirmation of truth, integrity, and public service.

Governor Espina began by extending warm greetings and congratulations to all journalists, editors, broadcasters, and communicators present. He acknowledged the unwavering commitment of the media community, which continues to stand firm for responsible and ethical journalism despite the many challenges of the modern information age.

He reminded everyone that Eastern Visayas Media Without Borders Inc. was born in 2017 out of courage, unity, and a shared mission—to strengthen press freedom and promote truth and accountability across Leyte, Samar, Biliran, and Southern Leyte. For eight strong years, the organization has embodied these ideals.

This year’s theme, “Upholding Media Credibility Amid Post-Election Chaotic Politics and Polarized Journalism,” highlights the difficult environment today’s media faces. Governor Espina recognized the sacrifices of media practitioners—from skipped meals to rushing between airports and interviews—just to ensure that the public remains informed, enlightened, and empowered.

He emphasized that in the age of social media, where information spreads at lightning speed, responsibility, accuracy, and fact-checking are no longer optional—they are obligations. Every headline, every post, and every shared image can shape public opinion, influence decisions, and impact lives.

Governor Espina reminded the media of their noble duty:

Not to sensationalize, but to clarify.

Not to divide, but to enlighten.

Not to please everyone, but to serve with honesty and responsibility.

He added that the strength of media is not measured by how loud the headlines are, but by how truthful, factual, and fair the message remains.

The awards night, he said, is more than recognition—it is a celebration of courage. Courage to uphold truth amid misinformation. Courage to work tirelessly despite challenges. Courage to inspire a new generation that sees journalism not as a race for popularity, but a calling rooted in service to the public good.

Governor Espina thanked all members of the Eastern Visayas Media Without Borders Inc. for their years of dedication, and congratulated all awardees whose work continues to uplift communities across Region 8.

As he concluded, he called on everyone to keep telling stories that matter—with accuracy, integrity, and heart.

Long live the Eastern Visayas Media Without Borders. Long live the Eastern Visayas.