Mission and Purpose
We serve English-speaking residents and visitors in Puerto Vallarta by delivering timely, accurate news. We focus on local events, politics, culture, tourism, and community affairs. We aim to build trust through transparent, fair, and consistent reporting.
Accuracy and Fact Checking
We verify all facts before publication. Each story relies on at least two independent sources whenever possible. Reporters confirm details with primary documents, official statements, or firsthand observation. If we cite data (for example, financial figures or public records), we link directly to the original source. We check names, dates, and numbers carefully. Editors review every draft to catch errors in grammar, style, and factual content.
Source Attribution
We name every source clearly. When a source requests anonymity, we explain why and describe the person’s role or expertise. We never alter quotations to change their meaning. If we paraphrase, we make sure the meaning remains true to what the speaker intended. Whenever we use photos or videos from a third party, we credit the creator and link back to the original when possible.
Corrections and Updates
If we discover an error, we fix it promptly. We mark corrected stories with a note at the bottom explaining what changed and when. If the change affects the story’s core facts—such as who was involved or what happened—we publish a brief correction at the top of the article and archive the original version. We welcome readers’ feedback; anyone who spots a mistake can email [email protected].
Transparency and Disclosure
We identify authors by their full names and list their roles. On our About page, we describe our founding, our editorial team, and our mission. We disclose any direct financial support for a story (for example, if a story is sponsored by a local business). If an author has a personal or financial connection to a subject, we note that relationship clearly within the story.
Conflict of Interest
Reporters and editors must avoid situations where personal interests could affect coverage. If a staff member has a close relationship—financial, familial, or social—with a person or organization featured in a story, we reassign the coverage to another reporter. We do not publish “undisclosed paid partnerships.” All potential conflicts go through a review by the editor in chief.
Advertising and Sponsored Content
Our advertising appears in clearly labeled sections. We separate paid content from editorial coverage. Sponsored posts always carry a “Sponsored” label at the top. Advertisers have no influence over newsroom decisions, story selection, or editorial tone. We do not swap stories for ad buys.
Editorial Independence
Editors and reporters choose topics based on news value and reader interest. We do not adjust coverage to satisfy advertisers, sponsors, or political interests. We stand by our right to cover any local event, from city council meetings to cultural festivals, without interference. If a dispute arises about content, the editor in chief makes the final decision.
Privacy and Data
When we interview private individuals, we explain how we will use their information. We avoid publishing personal data—such as home addresses or private phone numbers—unless there is a clear public interest. We comply with applicable privacy laws. Our privacy policy (linked in the footer) outlines how we collect, store, and protect reader data.
Community Comments and Feedback
We encourage respectful discussion. Our comments policy requires that users remain civil and avoid hate speech, personal attacks, or off-topic posts. We delete comments that violate these rules and reserve the right to ban repeat offenders. We do not moderate to suppress dissenting viewpoints, only to uphold a safe, constructive environment.
Review and Revision
We revisit these standards annually or whenever significant changes in our newsroom process occur. Editors gather input from reporters, fact-checkers, and readers to refine our guidelines. We publish any major revisions in a visible place on the site so readers can track changes.
By following these standards, we commit to honest, transparent, and reliable journalism in Puerto Vallarta. We hold ourselves accountable to our readers, our community, and the principles of a free press.
