The Pampanga chapter of the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) has ushered in new leadership aimed at strengthening local media solidarity. The new officers were elected during a general assembly on August 27, 2026.
The assembly took place at Jiro Japanese Restaurant in Barangay Telabastagan, City of San Fernando, where Jhoedie Mercado of CLTV36 was elected as president.
Other key positions included Paulo Gee Santos, also from CLTV36, as executive vice president, and Jenna Parungao of Balitang-Balita as vice president for broadcast.
The remaining positions were filled by Larrica Dinio of iOrbitNews as vice president for online, Princess Clea Arcellaz of SunStar Pampanga as vice president for print, Gerald Gloton of Punto CL as secretary, Chris Espino of Newsline CL as treasurer, and Glendy Sembrano of GNN TV44 as auditor.
The board of directors comprises Joe Asuncion, Nelson Gonzales, Jennifer Salenga, Jo Salazar, and Joann Manabat, representing various local media outlets.
Under the guidance of senior media members like Chairman Emeritus Caesar “Bong” Lacson, CLMA Pampanga plans to focus on promoting the welfare of media professionals and maintaining high standards of ethics.
As the media landscape evolves, CLMA Pampanga reaffirms its commitment to uphold journalism ethics and protect press freedom, which are increasingly vital in today's fast-paced information environment.
A New Era for Local Media
The new leadership aims to tackle the unique challenges faced by local journalists, particularly in a region where media integrity is paramount amid numerous socio-political changes.
Our new leadership will prioritize the welfare of our members and uphold the standards of journalism in our community.
Jhoedie Mercado, CLMA-Pampanga President
- Focus on strengthening media solidarity
- Commitment to journalism ethics and press freedom
- Guidance from experienced media figures
The election of new officers signals a proactive approach by CLMA Pampanga to adapt and thrive in a challenging media environment.