FOR 44 YEARS, Panay News has been a trusted source of information, shaping public discourse and keeping communities informed. But behind every newspaper that reaches the hands of thousands of readers, there is a dedicated team working tirelessly to ensure that each page is printed with accuracy and care.
At the heart of this operation are the men who keep the presses running, who have dedicated years, even decades, to ensuring that Panay News delivers its mission of informing, educating, and inspiring.
Keeping the Presses Running
Javier Laurente, head operator of Panay News, takes pride in his work. After nearly 20 years in the company, he has seen firsthand how the newspaper impacts people’s lives.
“Manami sa pamatyag nga adlaw-adlaw kami naga-imprinta sang mga maayo nga balita. Nalipay gid ako kay damo naga-basa. Kami ang isa ka rason kon ngaa may nahibaluan nga impormasyon ang linibo nga mga tawo,” he shares.
For him, the joy of printing goes beyond the physical newspaper — it’s about being part of a mission that informs and enlightens. Challenges, particularly mechanical issues with printing machines, are inevitable, but his team’s dedication ensures that Panay News reaches its readers every day.
“Bisan kaisa ga-guba ang printing machine, pero ideyahan gid bala nga solusyonan. Kahit papaano, ang newspaper naton makaguwa gid adlaw-adlaw,” he adds.
From Playmates to Colleagues: A Family at Work
For Geovanni Fajardo, CTP supervisor, Panay News is more than just a workplace, it’s a second home. Having worked with the company for five years, he values the camaraderie and mutual respect among his colleagues.
“Nagsugod ako sa wala mo. Kumbaga, tanan nga halin sa puno nga pag-process sang papel asta matapos gid ang newspaper, sa ila ko man natun-an. Kag gin-apply ko man dayon sa akon,” he says.
His journey with Panay News is deeply personal. Some of the people he works with now were once his childhood playmates.
“Sing bata pa ‘ko, playmate ko lang sila. Pagdaku ko, wala man ko nag-ekspektar nga ma-workmate ko na sila. Isa na guro sa mga memorable moments ko diri,” he recalls.
Valued and Recognized
This sense of family is echoed by Rex Sorial, operator for 22 years, who says that familiarity and strong relationships make work easier.
“Amo na kon ngaa nanami-an ako diri kay daw indi ko mabatyagan ang kabug-at sang akon obra,” he shares.
The recognition given to employees, especially during the company’s year-end celebrations also makes them feel valued.
“Tanan nga events sang Panay News espesyal para kanakon pero ang nanami-an ko amo ang pagkilala man sa mga empleyado nga may manami sang obra kada December. Bisan paano nalipay man kami nga ginakilala ang amon ginahimu,” Rex emotionally shares.
Beyond Machines is a Commitment to Truth and Integrity
Regie Badello, Panay News operator for 14 years, hopes that future generations will continue to appreciate the value of printed news.
“Tani indi ninyo pagkalimtan nga mag-amlig sa gihapon sa newspaper. Sa newspaper, mabasa ninyo ang insakto kag indi fake news. May ginasunod ini nga mga proseso antes ini gina-imprinta,” he emphasizes.
He acknowledges the rise of digital news but firmly believes that print remains the most reliable source of information.
Edgar Abunas, who has been with Panay News for 24 years, agreed.
“Bisan may ara sang Facebook, lain gid tana kon sa print mo mabasa ang news. Kompleto ang detalye kag sigurado gid ang tanan nga insakto kag tuod ang ginabalita,” he says.
For Edgar, the company is more than just a workplace, it’s a community where everyone looks out for each other.
“Kami diri daw mag-ulutod lang kami tanan. Way kami naga-lainay buot, naga-intindihanay lang kami sa obra,” he adds.
44 Years and Beyond: The People Behind the News
For over four decades, Panay News has been a steadfast voice in the region, delivering credible journalism to the people. But beyond the headlines and bylines, its strength lies in the unsung heroes in the printing press — men who pour their skills, dedication, and passion into every page.
As Panay News celebrates its 44th anniversary, it not only marks the years of informing, educating, and inspiring but also honors the people who make it all possible./PN
