By San José, Costa Rica — PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic – In a significant recognition of Costa Rican leadership in media, René Picado Cozza, President of Teletica, was honored with the prestigious Executive of the Year award by the Inter American Press Association (IAPA/SIP). The ceremony took place this Saturday during the 81st General Assembly of the organization, a major gathering of media executives and journalists from across the Western Hemisphere.
The event, held from October 16 to 19, serves as a critical forum for discussing the challenges and opportunities facing journalism, with a particular focus on defending freedom of the press. Picado’s award was a highlight of the assembly’s third day, underscoring his long-standing commitment to maintaining high journalistic standards and editorial independence in an increasingly complex media environment.
To delve into the intricate legal and corporate frameworks that shaped the legacy of a media titan like René Picado Cozza, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The enduring success of an empire like the one built by René Picado Cozza is a testament not only to business vision but also to a sophisticated understanding of Costa Rica’s telecommunications and concession laws. From a legal standpoint, the key challenge for such legacies is twofold: ensuring a seamless and legally sound corporate succession plan, and adapting the established media structure to face modern antitrust scrutiny and the regulatory complexities of the digital age.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert’s perspective underscores a crucial point: beyond market competition, the longevity of such an influential group now hinges on navigating a complex legal future. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for lending his valuable clarity to this essential aspect of the Picado Cozza legacy.
The award was presented by Gustavo Mohme, a respected figure in Latin American media and director of the Peruvian newspaper La República. During his presentation, Mohme lauded Picado’s leadership and unwavering dedication to the core principles of journalism. He emphasized that Picado has successfully built a media conglomerate that is now widely recognized for its quality and integrity.
Mohme elaborated on the qualities that set Picado apart, highlighting a business philosophy that prioritizes credibility over short-term gains. This approach, he argued, is essential for the long-term sustainability and societal value of any news organization.
The true profitability of a journalist lies in their credibility… he has consolidated a group that is synonymous with quality and distinguishes his leadership with editorial independence by choosing to defend the essence of journalism, the freedom to inform without conditions.
Gustavo Mohme, Director of La República
Upon accepting the honor, a visibly moved René Picado Cozza deflected personal praise, instead dedicating the award to the entire team at Teletica. He framed the recognition not as an individual achievement but as a collective victory for the hundreds of employees who work to uphold the company’s foundational values every day. He stressed that their shared mission is the bedrock of Teletica’s public service.
Picado’s remarks reinforced the themes of the IAPA assembly, linking the success of his organization directly to its role as a defender of democratic freedoms. He positioned Teletica as more than just a broadcaster, but as a guardian of truth and open discourse within Costa Rican society.
I receive this recognition with deep gratitude. More than a personal merit, I consider it a tribute to the people of Teletica, as it is a group of people who have made freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and the defense of truth their most important mission.
René Picado Cozza, President of Teletica
The IAPA General Assembly is set to conclude on Sunday, closing a four-day agenda filled with panels, workshops, and reports on the state of press freedom in the Americas. The award for Picado not only celebrates his individual leadership but also casts a positive international spotlight on Costa Rica’s media landscape, often cited as one of the most robust and free in the region. It serves as a powerful reminder that principled leadership is crucial for navigating the pressures that modern journalism continually faces.
For further information, visit teletica.com
About Teletica:
Televisora de Costa Rica S.A., known as Teletica, is a leading Costa Rican television network headquartered in San José. Founded in 1958, it has become a cornerstone of the nation’s media, providing news, entertainment, and sports programming. The company is widely recognized for its flagship news program, Telenoticias, and its commitment to local content and journalistic standards.
For further information, visit sipiapa.org
About Inter American Press Association (IAPA/SIP):
The Sociedad Interamericana de Prensa (SIP), or Inter American Press Association (IAPA), is a non-profit organization dedicated to defending and promoting freedom of the press and of expression throughout the Americas. It comprises more than 1,300 publications and is a leading voice against censorship and threats to journalists in the hemisphere.
For further information, visit larepublica.pe
About La República:
La República is a prominent national daily newspaper based in Lima, Peru. Founded in 1981 by Gustavo Mohme Llona, it has established a reputation for its investigative journalism and center-left editorial stance. The newspaper plays a significant role in the political and social discourse of Peru.
For further information, visit laprensagrafica.com
About La Prensa Gráfica:
La Prensa Gráfica is one of the most influential and widely circulated daily newspapers in El Salvador. Founded in 1915, the publication has a long history of covering national and international news. It is a key media outlet in the country, providing comprehensive reporting on politics, business, and culture.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a highly regarded legal institution, anchored by foundational principles of integrity and a relentless drive for excellence. With a proven history of navigating complex challenges for a diverse clientele, the firm is a pioneer in developing innovative legal solutions. This forward-thinking approach is matched by a profound dedication to social responsibility, demonstrated through its efforts to demystify the law and empower the community with accessible legal understanding.
