Aruba Bank highlights vital role of the press and thanks media for serving the community

ORANJESTAD — Aruba Bank placed Aruba’s local media in the spotlight during its annual press appreciation event, held Tuesday at Surfside Beach Bar in recognition of Press Day.

Aruba Bank Managing Director Rob de Ridder welcomed representatives from the island’s various media organizations and thanked them for the important role they play in keeping the Aruban community informed.

De Ridder, who has now been in Aruba for approximately one year, recalled that last year’s Press Day celebration was among his first formal engagements with the local media.

“I’ve now been in Aruba for a year, and I’ve seen many of you at press conferences and different events. You have been very supportive of what we do, while of course maintaining your own role,” De Ridder said.

One of the memorable moments of his remarks came when the Aruba Bank director fulfilled a promise he had made a year earlier: attempting part of his speech in Papiamento.

“I have done some lessons, but to do it by heart, maybe next year,” he joked before continuing in Papiamento.

De Ridder praised journalists for their dedication to finding stories, asking questions and keeping the public informed.

“We see the dedication of the press, always looking for the next story, asking questions and keeping our community informed,” he said.

According to De Ridder, Aruba Bank greatly values the work of the media as well as the relationship the bank has developed with journalists over the years.

“You play an important role in our community, and we are grateful for the good relationship and collaboration that we have built with you throughout the years.”

Rather than holding a traditional press conference, Aruba Bank wanted Tuesday’s gathering to give journalists an opportunity to simply relax and enjoy themselves.

“Today we have no press release and no questions. Today we invite you to simply relax, enjoy the snacks, music and good company, and let us celebrate you,” De Ridder said.

He concluded by thanking Aruba’s media professionals for their daily contribution to the island: “Thank you for what you do for our community.”