Quezon City: Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman has emphasized that open governance is not just an advocacy campaign but also a ‘cornerstone of a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines).’ She urged open governance champions to join the crusade for government transparency and stability to safeguard democratic values.
According to Philippines News Agency, Pangandaman highlighted the importance of protecting democratic values, such as freedom of speech, public participation, and equality, during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Open Government Week at the Luxent Hotel. She described open government as more than just a concept, but a movement essential to the nation’s success through transparent governance, accountable leadership, and active citizen participation.
Pangandaman, who also heads the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP), committed to advancing the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill into law. The DBM has been engaging in roundtable discussions with government entities, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector to promote the FOI bill in the 20th Congress. She expressed confidence in its passage with the support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Efforts to refine the FOI bill are ongoing in collaboration with the Presidential Communications Office, with plans to present it at the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council meeting on May 26. Pangandaman also noted the Philippines’ achievements in hosting the East Asia and the Pacific International Public Procurement Conference and submitting the most entries for the Open Gov Challenge in the region.
The institutionalization of the PH-OGP, through Executive Order 31 signed by Marcos, marks a significant step in promoting transparency and accountability. The PH-OGP is a multi-stakeholder partnership that oversees the country’s commitment to the Open Government Partnership (OGP).
Swati Mehta, OGP Regional Lead for Asia and the Pacific, recognized the institutionalization of PH-OGP as a crucial step for transparency, participation, and accountability. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla echoed the need for champions of local governance, emphasizing the public’s demand for improved governance and a better future.
The ongoing Open Gov Week, concluding on May 23, features events such as forums, workshops, youth-led initiatives, and dialogues, engaging representatives from government agencies, CSOs, the private sector, and the youth. The celebration aims to promote transparency, accountability, citizen participation, and innovation in governance.
