Manila, Philippines – October 1, 2025. The Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) officially held the oath-taking ceremony of its newly elected officers at the Supreme Court Session Hall, highlighting the strong collaboration between the judiciary and the press in advancing truth, accountability, and democracy.
The oath was administered by Acting Chief Justice Marvic Mario Victor F. Leonen, who underscored the crucial role of responsible journalism in safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring that the people’s voices are faithfully represented through ethical reporting.
Also present was Supreme Court administrator, Hon. Maria Theresa Dolores C. Gomez-Estoesta who lauded the organization for its continuing efforts in promoting transparency and good governance through independent journalism.
The ceremony was further honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including renowned inventors Dr. Richard Nixon Gomez and Mr. Ronald Pagsanghan, Ana Marie Thompson CEO-Manila Times, Mr. Anthony C. Cabangon Publisher- Business Mirror, Ramon “Mon” Albar Chairman Emeritus – Akeanon News and expressed their support for PAPI’s mission to uphold press freedom and integrity.
Appointed Chairman / Director for Media Affairs – Mr. Nelson Santos
Newly Elected PAPI Officers
- President – Rebecca “Beck” Madeja-Velásquez
- Executive Vice President – Ian Israel Junio
- Vice President for Luzon – Alma Ochotorena
- Vice President for Visayas – Giecel Toriano-Albar
- Vice President for Mindanao – Anila Anne Acosta
- Secretary – Reyland Lopez
- Treasurer – Leonida Cardona
- Auditor – May Ann Reyla
Board of Directors
- Luzon – Dina Diaz
- Luzon – Eduardo Cardona
- Mindanao – Elpedio Bermas Soriano Jr.
- Mindanao – Joseph Denmarc Avila III
The newly installed officers pledged to continue uniting publishers nationwide in advancing professional standards, ethical media practice, and innovative approaches to journalism.
As one of the country’s oldest and most respected media organizations, PAPI’s new leadership signals a renewed commitment to its vision of empowering the press as a cornerstone of democracy while promoting integrity, accountability, and progress in Philippine journalism. — Jian Carl Castillo / G.I.E.C.E.L AN-PAPI VP-VISAYAS
📸 courtesy: Viktor Nicolai G. Laraño
SC Public Information
PAPI Ian Israel Junio/ Jayson Viloria
