Northern Samar: KABAYAN Partylist Rep. Ron Salo on Thursday: pushed for the passage of a measure seeking to mandate the livestreaming of Sangguniang Bayan sessions to make local legislative sessions accessible to the public. Salo emphasized the importance of House Bill No. 11294, or the Act Mandating the Livestreaming of Sangguniang Bayan Sessions, to utilize online streaming platforms for promoting transparency in local governance.
According to Philippines News Agency, Salo stated that in a democratic country, enhancing accessibility, inclusivity, and openness in governmental processes is crucial. He believes that livestreaming legislative sessions fosters transparency and ensures accountability of public officials. Salo highlighted how digital technology offers significant opportunities to improve public access to government proceedings and citizen engagement.
Salo referenced the House of Representatives and the Senate, which have been livestreaming their sessions, allowing citizens to observe policy formulation and decision-making processes. Additionally, he mentioned the Laoag City Council in Ilocos Norte, which has been livestreaming its sessions since July 2022, enabling residents to have real-time access to discussions impacting their city.
A study in Isabela City, Basilan was also cited by Salo, demonstrating the significance of digital technology in enhancing public service delivery and citizen engagement. HB 11294, filed by Salo on January 15, proposes amendments to the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160), requiring local government units to livestream all regular and special sessions on official social media pages and archive recordings for public access.
Salo remarked that this initiative modernizes governance, ensuring it keeps pace with technological advancements. Livestreaming local legislative sessions combats misinformation and encourages an informed and engaged citizenry. The proposed measure highlights the role of digital technology in making governance more accessible to the people and aims to set a higher standard for public service in the Philippines.
