Dubbed “Isyu Karon,” the forum officially launched this September 11, 2026 providing media practitioners an avenue to directly raise questions and seek information from government officials, specialists, and other key stakeholders.
For its first edition, the forum tackled three major concerns—media safety and security, Alzheimer’s disease, and school preparedness and safety.
Leading the discussion on media security was Jose “Joe” Torres, Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS), who discussed the agency’s mandate to protect the life, liberty, and security of media workers.
Particular attention was given to the safety of journalists covering the upcoming BARMM elections, including possible risks in politically sensitive areas and safety considerations when reporting from polling stations, counting centers, rallies, and other election-related activities.
Torres also provided guidance on risk assessment, security preparations, and available mechanisms for journalists who may encounter threats or other security concerns while performing their duties.
Meanwhile, in observance of World Alzheimer’s Month, adult neurology and dementia specialist Dr. Paul Nichol G. Gonzales tackled the warning signs, diagnosis, treatment, and management of Alzheimer’s disease.
Under the topic “Beyond Forgetfulness: Recognizing, Diagnosing, and Managing Alzheimer’s Disease,” Gonzales emphasized the importance of distinguishing ordinary age-related forgetfulness from symptoms that may require medical attention.
The discussion also covered practical concerns faced by patients and caregivers, available treatment and management options, and developments in Alzheimer’s care.
The forum’s third discussion centered on school safety, with DepEd Region 11 spokesperson Jenielito Atillo outlining the department’s efforts to strengthen emergency preparedness and protect students.
Among the topics discussed was the recent safety simulation conducted in selected schools in Davao, including lessons learned and areas that need improvement.
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Atillo also discussed DepEd’s coordination with local government units and other partner agencies to further enhance emergency response protocols in schools across the region.
Organizers said the forum aims to make credible and timely information more accessible, particularly on issues that directly affect communities.
Through its monthly sessions, Isyu Karon hopes to strengthen engagement between the media and different sectors while giving journalists a venue to obtain firsthand information that can help enrich public reporting and discourse.
The forum is expected to continue tackling emerging issues of public interest in Davao and other parts of Mindanao in succeeding monthly sessions.
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