In this contemporary time when misinformation, disinformation and “fake news” are the favorite tools of some writers both in the mainstream and social media to catch the attention of the public, it is comforting to see the local media practitioners of San Pablo getting along together in the traditional venue set by the 7 Lakes Press Corps fifteen years ago. Nothing much has changed except for the guests, vloggers and added members of the Press Corps. Vlogging was not yet a fad when the Press Corps was conceived.
For two years, the group was constrained not to band together due to the pandemic hence, it is so refreshing to see old time friends exchanging pleasantries, drinking merrily, hugging each other and partaking of the sumptuous food courtesy of the friends of the local media through the indefatigable efforts of 7LPC President Sandy Belarmino with the assistance of the ever- helpful Ding Saraza. It was also a delight seeing the “Walking Encyclopedia” of the Press Corps Ruben Taningco, who in his mid-80’s can still cope with the changing times. Of course, we appreciate the presence of Boyet “Talbos Tubo” Marcelo for deciding to come home from the USA to share his precious time and thoughts on many issues.
The matriarch of the Herald Group of Publication Nena E. Mallari, the publisher of Tutubi News Magazine Venus Penaflor, the Publisher of Laguna Courier Donnah C. Aranguren, editors, columnists, writers of various local papers and elected local officials headed by Mayor(a) Gem Castillo were there to grace the occasion. Her heartfelt rendition of the song “Paano Kita Mapasasalamatan” made Sandy and some of the guests misty eyed. It was a song not only meant for us but for her as well for showing us her kindness and generosity during this time of the year. Indeed, how can we ever thank her?
Vice Governor Karen C. Agapay and Cong. Amben Amante sent gifts to be raffled to the group but like the usual practice of the Press Corps, it was simply given to those who needed it the most. This unique practice made us totally different from the rest – no buts, no ifs, no qualms, a sincere show of empathy and affection. This is how the members of the 7LPC treat each other. We may be in disagreement sometimes pertaining to local and national issues but we always agree to disagree. That is the essence of press freedom in a democracy.
As the year draws to an end, we wish to thank all the members of the 7LPC and all those who participated in the revelry like the CIO, Tourism Office, Sangguniang Panlungsod and the Office of the City Administrator for making the affair a success. “Although it’s been said many times, many ways, MERRY CHRISTMAS” to all of you!
In this contemporary time when misinformation, disinformation and “fake news” are the favorite tools of some writers both in the mainstream and social media to catch the attention of the public, it is comforting to see the local media practitioners of San Pablo getting along together in the traditional venue set by the 7 Lakes Press Corps fifteen years ago. Nothing much has changed except for the guests, vloggers and added members of the Press Corps. Vlogging was not yet a fad when the Press Corps was conceived.
For two years, the group was constrained not to band together due to the pandemic hence, it is so refreshing to see old time friends exchanging pleasantries, drinking merrily, hugging each other and partaking of the sumptuous food courtesy of the friends of the local media through the indefatigable efforts of 7LPC President Sandy Belarmino with the assistance of the ever- helpful Ding Saraza. It was also a delight seeing the “Walking Encyclopedia” of the Press Corps Ruben Taningco, who in his mid-80’s can still cope with the changing times. Of course, we appreciate the presence of Boyet “Talbos Tubo” Marcelo for deciding to come home from the USA to share his precious time and thoughts on many issues.
The matriarch of the Herald Group of Publication Nena E. Mallari, the publisher of Tutubi News Magazine Venus Penaflor, the Publisher of Laguna Courier Donnah C. Aranguren, editors, columnists, writers of various local papers and elected local officials headed by Mayor(a) Gem Castillo were there to grace the occasion. Her heartfelt rendition of the song “Paano Kita Mapasasalamatan” made Sandy and some of the guests misty eyed. It was a song not only meant for us but for her as well for showing us her kindness and generosity during this time of the year. Indeed, how can we ever thank her?
Vice Governor Karen C. Agapay and Cong. Amben Amante sent gifts to be raffled to the group but like the usual practice of the Press Corps, it was simply given to those who needed it the most. This unique practice made us totally different from the rest – no buts, no ifs, no qualms, a sincere show of empathy and affection. This is how the members of the 7LPC treat each other. We may be in disagreement sometimes pertaining to local and national issues but we always agree to disagree. That is the essence of press freedom in a democracy.
As the year draws to an end, we wish to thank all the members of the 7LPC and all those who participated in the revelry like the CIO, Tourism Office, Sangguniang Panlungsod and the Office of the City Administrator for making the affair a success. “Although it’s been said many times, many ways, MERRY CHRISTMAS” to all of you!
Melinda Bagsic Evangelista
I was born to write and I believe that’s my calling. I love writing because it brings me to the realm exclusively of mine. It is also my opinion that “immortality” can be achieved not by searching for the Holy Grail and drinking from it but by living your life worth-writing or writing something worth-reading. Since I cannot promise you a life worth-writing, I keep myself busy writing something worth-reading. I am thankful to God for giving me the talent and skill to see life in different perspectives not seen by many and the courage to share it to my readers. This first ever Tutubi Digital News Magazine is a perfect avenue to bring you the many facets of life that you can ponder upon in this time of the pandemic. Enjoy reading all the articles.
