LINGAYEN–Gov. Amado Espino Jr. is finally coming out of his shell.

The new governor, who just recently reported on his first 100 days in office, has promised to be more accessible to the media by holding a press conference at least twice a month.

In a press conference Friday, his first ever since assuming office on July 1, Espino also provided the contact numbers of his department heads, who were present during the event held at the Urduja House, so that the press can directly contact them for updates and clarifications on issues.

Members of the local press have been criticizing Espino for being unavailable for interviews and mostly staying closeted with his staff.

Espino apologized and explained that he has been “doing his homework” for the province during his first three months in office.

“I am asking for your understanding and regret not attending to you,” he told mediamen.

“I am aware that some sectors of the Pangasinan press have not liked the idea of frequently finding me closeted with my staff and my co-workers, pre-occupied with the burdensome task of putting our ‘house in order’ and setting a right course for our government and province,” Espino added.

Espino also said he is ready to take criticisms as long as these are true and in line with the functions of his position.

“If you will attack me for the good of the province, it’s okay with me,” he added.

He also took exception to how some news reports in the past have been leveled on his person and “below-the-belt” and not on his capacity as a public official.

“I found these without any basis, did not at all deal with valid issues, but vicious attacks on my person, which have pained me, my family and close friends a great deal,” he said.

He then appealed to media practitioners for fairness and professionalism in their reports.

Espino said with most of the house-cleaning done, he is now ready to pursue the development projects he has lined up for the province.

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