El Vocero de Puerto Rico announced Thursday that it will continue publishing its print edition six days a week, in response to rival GFR Media's decision to shift to a 100% digital format starting September 28. In a statement titled "Firmes con Puerto Rico," El Vocero's Board of Directors said it has no plans to abandon print and that paper will keep coexisting with the development of its digital platforms.
The company said, "Esta madrugada, como cada día, las prensas de El Vocero rodaron como siempre. Mañana también lo harán... Seguiremos llegando a todo Puerto Rico."
El Vocero said the decision responds to the needs of readers who still depend on the traditional print format, particularly older adults and people with limited access to technology. It cited data from Puerto Rico's Institute of Statistics indicating there are currently 237 people aged 65 or older for every 100 people under 15 on the island.
Despite committing to print, El Vocero said it will keep developing its digital platforms, and also plans to increase the number of free printed copies it distributes around Puerto Rico. "El papel se mantiene vivo" ("Paper remains alive"), the Board declared.