The Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd) has elected Tessa Mauricio-Arriola, lifestyle and entertainment editor of The Manila Times, as its new president.

Mauricio-Arriola now heads the organization, which began as a social club of entertainment editors from national broadsheets, leading tabloids, and major online portals.

SPEEd was co-founded by the late Manila Standard entertainment editor Isah V. Red, who also served as the group’s president emeritus.

“With our new set of officers, we want to move forward with a bold vision while staying true to the values that have always guided SPEEd and continuing to support the direction the group believes in,” Mauricio-Arriola said.

Joining her in the new set of officers are Maricris Nicasio of Hataw (vice president — internal) and Gerardine Trillana of Malaya Business Insight (vice president — external).

Ervin Santiago of Inquirer Bandera and Rohn Romulo of People’s Balita were elected secretaries, while Dondon Sermino of Abante TnT and DWAR 1494, along with Anna Pingol of Pika-Pika and Pilipino Star Ngayon, will serve as treasurers. Jerry Olea of PEP was named auditor.

The group’s public relations officers are Nickie Wang of Manila Standard, who was reelected, along with Neil Ramos of Tempo and Janiz Navida of Bulgar.

“As we enter a new chapter, we remain committed to supporting communities and, through the annual Eddys, continuing to honor the workers in the film industry who make these meaningful stories possible,” Mauricio-Arriola added.

Veteran entertainment journalist Nestor Cuartero of Tempo, Manila Bulletin and The Market Monitor continues to serve as SPEEd adviser.

Members of the council of past presidents include Ian Fariñas of People’s Tonight, Eugene Asis of People’s Journal, and Salve Asis of Pilipino Star Ngayon and Pang-Masa.

SPEEd members include Dinah Sabal Ventura of DAILY TRIBUNE, Jun Lalin of Abante, Nathalie Tomada of The Philippine Star, Bobby Requintina of Manila Bulletin, Dindo Balares, retired editor of Balita, and Rito Asilo, retired editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.