EVERY great endeavor begins with a single, brave step. In 1981, a bold idea gave rise to a publication that would become a trusted daily companion for Western Visayans. Today, as Panay News marks its 44th anniversary, it proudly stands as the No. 1 regional newspaper — recognized for fearless journalism, resilience in the face of adversity, and resolute mission to serve the Ilonggo public.
Through changing times, evolving technologies, and shifting media landscapes, Panay News has remained steadfast in its purpose: to inform, to engage, and to stand for the truth. With deep roots in community journalism and a future-forward vision, the journey continues — stronger, sharper, and more connected than ever.
Here’s a look back at the milestones that have shaped Panay News through the years:
April 7, 1981 – The Birth of Panay News
Panay News was founded by the visionary couple Danny Gumban Fajardo and Maria Santillan Fajardo. It began as a weekly newspaper called Panay News Today, known for its adversarial reporting and bold stance on press freedom. Its first Editor-in-Chief was Jeremias “Jerry” Taclino, followed briefly by Vicky Primero. By the end of April, Herbert Vego took over the editorial helm, and the word “Today” was dropped from the masthead.
1986 – Symbol of Strength
Panay News adopted the eagle as its symbol, embodying the paper’s courage, strength, and tenacity in overcoming operational and logistical challenges.
1990 – A Step Forward
Now a leader in the regional print media industry, Panay News transitioned to a semi-weekly publication, coming out every Monday and Thursday.
1991 – Answering Growing Demand
The paper began publishing three times a week — Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — reflecting the increasing demand for timely and fearless journalism.
1995 – Becoming a Daily
Panay News became a full-fledged daily newspaper, publishing from Monday to Sunday. It also embraced desktop publishing and began diversifying its content to cement its position as the go-to source for reliable news.
2002 – Breaking New Ground
It became the first newspaper in Western Visayas to feature a full-color front page, setting itself apart from other local publications.
2003 – Hublas Nga Kamatuoran is Born
On September 29, Panay News launched its sister publication, Hublas Nga Kamatuoran, the first and only Hiligaynon-language newspaper in the country. It quickly gained popularity for its crime coverage and engaging columns written in the native tongue.
2011 – Recognition and Transition
Panay News was named Best Regional Newspaper by the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. That same year, leadership transitioned to Daniel Fajardo II, and operations moved from Mandurriao, Iloilo City to Barangay Mali-ao, Pavia, Iloilo.
2012 – Venturing into Digital
Panay News embraced the digital age by establishing a presence on Facebook and Twitter. It also integrated QR codes for easier mobile access to its website.
2014 – Award-Winning and Tech-Forward
On January 17, Panay News received the Golden Horse Award for “Best Provincial Newspaper” from the Federation of Provincial Press Clubs of the Philippines. It also acquired computer-to-plate imaging and web-fed offset printing machines — the first in Western Visayas.
2015 – Faster Delivery in Bacolod
Improved logistics allowed the newspaper to reach newsstands in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental as early as 4 a.m., ahead of both national and local competitors.
2017 – Building a Stronger Digital Presence
A dedicated social media team was formed to boost content production and audience engagement online.
2018 – Entering Digital Marketing
Panay News expanded into digital marketing, offering clients live event coverage, business launch videos, and commercial video production.
2019 – Showcasing Stories on Screen
“PN Exclusives,” a video-magazine program featuring local personalities, organizations, and events, was launched. The same year, Panay News, Inc. took over Watchmen Daily Journal, a Bacolod-based publication.
2020 – Weathering the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic severely tested the media industry, but Panay News remained operational and resilient, earning the distinction of being the “last newspaper standing” in Western Visayas.
2021 – Expanding Digital News Offerings
The weekly digital news program “PN Wrap-up” was launched and later evolved into the weekday news show “PN Tonight.” Panay News also completed its management takeover of Watchmen Daily Journal.
2024 – National Recognition
At the 2023 Philippine Press Institute’s Community Press Awards, Panay News won three major awards: Best in Editorial Page, Best in Reporting on Migration Issues, and Best in Business and Economic Reporting. These honors affirm its status as a national benchmark in regional journalism.
From Print to Pixels, the Mission Continues
Panay News’ journey is far from over. With every milestone, it grows bolder in its mission to serve the Ilonggo community — not just as a chronicler of events, but as a champion of truth, justice, and public service.
Here’s to the next chapter. Here’s to the future of fearless journalism./PN
