New PCOO chief to propose nat’l comms strategy for media

MANILA, Philippines – Amid president-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s recent controversy with the media, incoming Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) chief Martin Andanar on Saturday, June 4, said he will propose a national communications strategy for government media. 

“Many are interested to know what I would do in the PCOO. I’ve spoken to Bong Go and already confided with secretary Jun Evasco,” the 41-year-old Andanar told reporters of his plans in Davao City.

Among the government channels he will supervise are PTV 4, Philippine Broadcasting Service, Radyo ng Bayan, the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine News Agency and the National Printing Office.

Andanar, a news anchor and radio commentator from TV5, will replace current PCOO Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr, whom he is set to speak with when he returns to Manila. Andanar will tender his resignation from TV5 on Monday, June 6.

“My job (will be) to manage the different media platforms of the government. The job of speaking in behalf of the president is still with Atty Salvador Panelo,” he added.

Andanar said he will propose that the Davao Sunday TV program “Gikan sa Masa Para sa Masa” (From the masses, for the masses), which Duterte hosts, be aired nationwide.

“It’s really mirroring what they have here in Davao – giving voice to the voiceless, reporting the achievements to the people the achievements,” he said.

Andanar added: “Everything will depend on the president, whether he approves it or not. We are very flexible to what the president wants.” – Rappler.com