The United Print Media Group (UPMG), the premier organization of top publications in the country, and host of the 2nd Philippine Print Media Congress announced the postponement of the congress.  Originally slated for August 9-10 at the Manila Hotel, the congress is tentatively rescheduled for September 6-7.  This was disclosed by UPMG president Ricky Alegre and vp-congress chairman Barbie Atienza, at the height of the continuous downpour that has rendered Metro Manila in crisis due to floods and inundated roads.  

In responding to the alarming situation due to the unusual weather disturbance and its expected aftermath, the UPMG felt it was imperative to call off the congress.  This is because people concerned are expected to be busy in looking after safety and well being of their families and properties even if the weather clears up.  This was being sensitive and responsive to the prevalent situation. "Even if it clears up on Thursday (forecast is heavy rains will continue to pour until  Thursday), which we all hope for, we know that people will need to fix up homes and offices and also catch up on work, after missing a couple of days", according to chairman Atienza. The new date will be finalized soon as it has to take into consideration the hotel availability, the speakers' schedules and the best, most viable dates for the delegates and others involved. " We will make an announcement as soon as we have the new date", Atienza assured. 

  Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim leads a distinguished line-up of speakers at the 2nd Philippine Print Media Congress to be held on August 9 and 10 at the historic landmark, Manila Hotel.  The mayor will speak on “The Importance and Role of the Print Media in Social Development and Nation Building”.  It is organized and hosted by the United Print Media Group (UPMG), the premier organization of publication organizations of broadsheets, tabloids and magazines in the country.  UPMG boasts of around 40 active member-companies.  The congress brings together some 400 media practitioners, executives, officers and staff from various publications and advertising companies as well as professors and students of  Journalism and Mass Communication.  The 2nd Philippine Print Media Congress aims to ensure that print remains as a major streamline medium of mass communications that will be relevant, effective and competitive even with the emergence of the new digital media.   

“Mayor Lim was our choice as keynote speaker because he would know what he would speak of, considering that he has dealt with the media, especially print, from the time he was a young law enforcer, an officer, a senator and mayor of the premier city.” According to Barbie Atienza, UPMG Vice President and Congress Chairman.   The local chief executive’s extensive exposure and experience with the print media throughout his very colorful and accomplished career in public service will set the tone for an interesting two-day learning and discussion for all participants.  Other than Lim, speakers from various sectors and agencies related to the industry have also been invited including a international guest from abroad. 

The 2nd Philippine Print Congress will also feature products and services offered by some companies who will showcase their wares in an exhibit.  There will likewise be interactive group dynamics which will be highly participative.  Fellowship during breaks, meals and cocktails will foster stronger partnerships among fellow stakeholders in print media.  Premium prizes will also be raffled off.     

Special discount and promo packages are available for interested parties.  For more information and/or registration please contact the UPMG secretariat at www.unitedprintmediagroup.com.ph, upmgprintcon@gmail.com, or telephone numbers 4039859/4037787 or 09328890878 (ask for ayra or gem).