Photo & edit by: Cris Gabion
UNGC Highlight Media’s Role in Advancing UN Sustainable Development Goals in the Philippines | MANILA, Philippines — Media leaders, civic advocates, educators, and representatives from various sectors gathered on October 23 for “Media & the Global Filipino: Recognizing the Role of Media in Connecting, Informing and Mobilizing the Filipinos for the SDGs,” a forum highlighting the role of responsible journalism, digital media, and information literacy in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Co-presented by PinoyWorld TV and the United Network of Global Citizens (UNGC), the event was held in observance of United Nations Day and Media and Information Literacy Week. Discussions focused on how media can help bridge communities, promote informed public participation, amplify meaningful stories, and encourage collective action toward sustainable development.
PinoyWorld TV is a digital media network, content hub, and production ecosystem dedicated to showcasing Filipino talent, stories, and global advocacies. UNGC promotes global citizenship, cross-border partnerships, and initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Media literacy and ethical storytelling for sustainable development
Keynote speakers Dr. Margarita Consolacion C. Ballesteros and Global UNA Philippines President Ric Cruz emphasized the importance of critical thinking, ethical storytelling, and digital literacy in helping audiences navigate information and understand issues affecting communities locally and globally.
The forum underscored that media plays a role beyond reporting events. Through accurate information, responsible storytelling, and accessible digital content, media organizations can help people better understand development challenges and participate in solutions.
Photo by: Cris Gabion
Panel highlights media’s role across sectors
Moderated by Direk JP Ninalga, the panel discussion explored how media can connect different sectors of Filipino society with broader global development goals.
The discussion featured perspectives from Dr. Sandy Montano on healthcare workers and empathy; Ric Cruz on sustainable tourism; Prof. Pilar Bautista on grassroots development; Arriane Symmes on overseas Filipinos and their contributions; Lance Raymundo on Filipino identity and representation in entertainment; and Leanna Alonto on purposeful digital content.
Their varied perspectives highlighted opportunities for media to bring attention to community initiatives, celebrate Filipino achievements, promote inclusive development, and connect local experiences with international advocacy.
Isabela leader calls for positive and responsible narratives
Among the event’s attendees was Dr. Cecilia La Madrid-Dy of Isabela, a civic organizer and entrepreneur known for her involvement in women’s empowerment, public service, and telecommunications. She also served as the first female president of JCI Senate Philippines, assuming the role in January 2025, and is associated with the Bambanti Festival, a major cultural celebration in Isabela.
La Madrid-Dy encouraged media practitioners to pursue positive and constructive narratives rather than sensationalized reporting that may harm individuals or communities. Her message reinforced the value of highlighting solutions, community progress, and stories that inspire meaningful action.
Leaders and peace advocates from Basilan also attended, underscoring the importance of solidarity, inclusive governance, and stronger connections among communities across the Philippines.
Partnerships strengthen media and advocacy collaboration
The forum brought together organizations working across media, education, healthcare, civic engagement, and leadership development. Participating organizations and partners included:
- United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) / Global UNA Philippines, which advances UN-related education, civic engagement, and awareness.
- Axelore Business Consultancy Services, a strategic partner of PinoyWorld TV, represented by event hosts Jakeson and Anne Quiatchon.
- Department of Education – International Cooperation Office (DepEd-ICO), represented in discussions on international cooperation, media, and information literacy.
- World Changers Academy, supporting educational initiatives, advocacy, and youth leadership.
- IDG Philippines Global Citizens Network, promoting inner development and global civic engagement.
- Cheers Global and the International Association of Dementia Care Nurses, representing healthcare and compassionate caregiving advocacy.
- Media, various media partner like The Manila Stories, Business Mirror, ABS-CBN, BilibB, Bravo Filipino and Negosentro Media that formalized partnerships with PinoyWorld TV and UNGC.
The event also featured memorandum of agreement (MOA) signings and media partnership certifications involving partners. These agreements reflected a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation and expanding the reach of advocacy-driven media initiatives.
Connecting Filipino communities to the global goals
The October 23 gathering reinforced the importance of collaboration among media organizations, educators, civic groups, and advocates in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals. By sharing reliable information and stories that reflect the experiences and aspirations of Filipinos, media can help build awareness, encourage participation, and support partnerships across borders.
As the Philippines continues to pursue inclusive and sustainable development, the forum highlighted a central message: media can do more than inform. Through responsible storytelling and purposeful collaboration, it can connect people, mobilize communities, and help turn shared goals into meaningful action.
