The members of Cebu Online News Press Corps (CONPC) gathered together for an evening of gratitude, celebration, and fellowship during its Thanksgiving Dinner and Appreciation Night on December 22, 2025, at the Bayfront Hotel Cebu – Capitol Site.
The festive gathering featured musical performances, a lively song competition by its members, and fun parlor games that made the night merrier. Everyone was treated to sumptuous dishes courtesy of Mr. Charlton Cokaliong of the Bayfront Hotel Cebu – Capitol Site.
In his opening remarks, CONPC founder Robby M. Alugar stressed the importance of the organization’s commitment to ethical journalism in an ever-evolving digital landscape. ”In a rapidly changing media landscape, our members have remained steadfast in our commitment to responsible journalism, accuracy, and truth,” Alugar said. He emphasized that journalism goes beyond reporting, adding, “Journalism is not just a profession, but a responsibility to promote transparency, accountability, and community awareness.” He concluded by calling on members to move forward with “resilience in adversity, unity in diversity, and integrity in our work as we serve the public with honesty and dedication.”
Delivering a Christmas message, Ms. Lilu Aliño of Lilu Advertising & Marketing Solutions highlighted CONPC’s steady growth and increasing credibility. “What started with just 26 members has grown to 86, a level of growth that proves this organization’s authenticity and staying power,” she said. Aliño noted that trust from partners has been built on genuine relationships, adding that people continue to support CONPC because of its authenticity. She encouraged the organization to remain bold and courageous as it expands its vision in the years ahead.
The night was made even more exciting with a raffle draw of prizes, adding more fun and laughter to the celebration. As a gesture of gratitude, active CONPC members received gifts and gift certificates as tokens of appreciation for their dedication and contributions throughout the year.
CONPC co-founder Minerva Newman, concluded the event with a compelling closing message. Newman reminded members of their role as digital watchdogs and storytellers. “Speed does not matter if the truth is compromised. Accuracy, fact-checking, and integrity are what protect a journalist’s credibility,” Newman said.
She also emphasized that Cebu’s stories extend beyond tourism and development, pointing to fishermen, students, overseas Filipino workers, and small business owners whose voices deserve attention. “You are not just reporting the news, you are shaping how Cebu sees itself, holding power accountable, and choosing truth over trends,” she added.
The Cebu Online News Press Corps extended its heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors whose support made the Thanksgiving Dinner and Appreciation Night possible. CONPC would like to thank the following sponsors: Jay Yuvallos, Bayfront Hotel Cebu-Capitol Site, Virginia Food Inc., SM, Supermalls, Lilu Advertising & Marketing Solutions, GT Cosmetics Manufacturing Inc., Precious Brew Cafe, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, Seda Ayala Center Cebu, Seda Central Bloc Cebu, The Mactan Newtown, Lite Shipping Corporation – Lite Ferries, Allbirds Philippines, Vismotor Corporation, Grab Philippines, Primer Group of Companies, Aventus Medical Care Inc., Children’s Paradise Montessori School, Golden Prince Hotel & Suites, ICANServe Foundation Inc. Cebu, Katinko Oil and Ointment, Mezzo Hotel, Mogu-Mogu, PR Works, San Miguel Brewery Inc., Sappe Beauti Drink, Taste Nirvana, Teleperformance, Unlisted Burger, Yeyeye Danggit and More, Yombig Burger, RMA News, and PARDIS a.k.a. Spine.
The Thanksgiving Dinner and Appreciation Night showed the organization’s unity, purpose, and commitment.It encouraged members to continue in helping brands and strengthening community ties as content creators. Everyone went home with gifts and a sense of gratitude. CONPC is looking forward to welcoming the coming year with renewed dedication to collaboration, and meaningful storytelling.
