Information officers of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) offices across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao participated in a media relations training organized by the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC) on March 3 to 4, 2025 at the SEC Headquarters in Makati City.

The two-day training was designed to equip the participants with essential media relations skills for effective public communication. Key topics covered included understanding the Philippine media landscape, crafting effective press releases, conducting successful media interviews, and managing crisis communications.

Participants took part in interactive workshops, simulations, and presentations.

“The intersection of journalism and media relations has become more dynamic, more challenging, and more exciting than ever… In these times of transformation, we need to ensure effective communication between government agencies such as the SEC and the media, in order to maintain transparency and also foster trust and engagement with the public,” said Therese San Diego Torres, president of the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication, in her welcome message.

Irish May Lorenzo, a seasoned media relations practitioner and head of MBrand at the Manila Bulletin, served as the resource speaker.

At the end of the program, one participant said, “The training made me more aware of how to handle media. I found the training very helpful because I don’t have prior experience.”

Another participant shared, “[the training was] by far one of the best and most practical workshops I’ve ever attended, given the very competent resource person.”

AIJC is offering another media relations training, open to the public. The two-day online course, titled “Navigating Media Relations: Strategies for Effective Communication,” will be held on May 8 to 9, 2025. To register for the paid training, visit https://aijc.com.ph/shortcourses/navigating-media-relations-strategies-for-effective-communication/.