Fact or Fiction: The truth in the Media
Port Moresby, PNG, 29 MAy 2017 -- World Communications Day was celebrated on 28th May, 2017, with a thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, East Boroko. Fr. Alfred Maravilla SDB, provincial for the Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands presided at the celebration, while Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB, the CBC Secretary for Communications and youth and Fr. Paul Kote, the Director for Radio Maria concelebrated along with him.
"Let us be communicators of faith and hope" said Fr. Alfred as he led the congregation to understand that we follow Christ to our permanent home. Dwelling on St. Francis de Sales, patron of journalists, he encouraged all to imitate this saint and not lose hope, as we bear witness to Christ by our lives of faith and trust.
Representatives from mainstream media: The National, Post Courier, Radio Maria and Wantok Newspaper together with CBC personnel and media animators were present for the session entitled: Fact or Fiction - The truth in the Media. The presentation and discussion was coordinated by Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb at Emmaus Conference Centre. Images and videos brought home strongly the need for media personnel to be critical of what is published and broadcasted to the people.
The participants viewed a clip of the recent visit of the President of the United States to the Holy Father. Pope Francis presented to the President a medallion made by a Roman artist. The gift, an olive tree, a symbol of peace sent a powerful message. The Holy Father explained that the two branches are being united by the olive branch of Peace. "I will not forget what you told me", the President, Mr Trump told the Holy Father.
Three points of reality were discussed. Firstly, Fact which is something that is true. Secondly, Fiction which is something that is invented and finally, Opinion is a view about something. Comments and reflections were shared relating it to what comes across through the mainstream media. Additionally, he also provided some facts of countries that control media coverage. In commenting on the freedom to use the media, he questioned if the PNG media is capable of presenting the 'truth' to the people. Issues such as education, deep sea mining, health and other issues were discussed.
Radio Maria director, Fr Paul pointed out that since the majority of people of Papua New Guinea are uneducated, they adhere to the handouts given.
National reporter, Jacklyn Sirias commented on the 'Fee Free Education' and said, "There are not enough classrooms to cater for the increasing number of students and children". She also questioned the educative environment that requires housing facilities, salaries, most needed infrastructure and resources for education. "While reporters write out the stories, the final edited article depends on the the ones above", she said.
Wantok Newspaper reporter Frieda Kana spoke of the struggle to produce a paper, and the need to solicit advertisements from companies that promote human dignity. Paeope Ovasuru, South Pacific Post confirmed that both sides of the story are normally presented with the news item. Fr. Victor Roche SVD reiterated that an opinion is not part of a news item.
"Awareness programs are essential for the people of Papua New Guinea, to enable the people analyze different facts and situations. This is what is most needed", suggested Sr. Kumari Pappu FIHM. Commenting on the sermon of Fr. Alfred, Sr Alem Coaching, FMA, encouraged all to use the media to disseminate facts and truth and continue to inspire hope through media.
In conclusion, Fr. Ambrose highlighted the need for each one to witness to Christian values, be passionate about living our Christian lives and present the 'Truth' through the media. The 11 present for the session were given tokens of appreciation and shared a fellowship meal.
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