DBM PRESS RELEASE

In a recent interview on Thought Leaders with Cathy Yang, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman reflected on the Philippines’ progress in open government in light of the country’s hosting of the inaugural Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting where she highlighted the nation’s ongoing efforts in transparency, open contracting, and the urgent need to pass the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill. 

Secretary Pangandaman, who has been leading and championing open government initiatives in the country, expressed pride in the Philippines’ leadership role in the Asia-Pacific region. “I’m so happy and proud to host more than a thousand participants and delegates from both international and local sectors. We’re just really happy to host this and be able to impart that the Philippines is taking a lead in open government,” said Pangandaman. Last October 2024, the Philippines started its three-year term as member of the Steering Committee, OGP’s oversight and coordinating body, which comprises of 22 members, equally represented by governments and civil society around the world.

One of the key achievements Secretary Pangandaman underscored during the interview was the Philippines’ advancements in open contracting. She revealed that significant progress has been made particularly in the integration of open contracting and beneficial ownership provisions in the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA). “We are now working closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission to share relevant documents, making the procurement process more transparent,” Pangandaman explained. “While open contracting isn’t new, we are institutionalizing it, and we’re optimistic about the roadmap we are crafting with the help of development partners.” 

Secretary Pangandaman also took the opportunity to address one of the most important pieces of legislation currently under consideration—the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill. Beyond the existing executive order that allows some level of access to government documents, the Secretary called for the passage of the FOI Bill to enshrine the right to access public information in law. 

She explained that the Freedom of Information law is crucial for empowering the people citing that it’s time to push for the FOI Bill’s enactment to institutionalize the people’s right to information. “I’ll try to push for the inclusion in our legislative agenda, together with the help of our civil society organizations, our friends from media and even our development partners. Maybe you can rally behind me and then let’s push for the enactment of the bill”, Pangandaman stated. 

As the Philippines continues its leadership role in the OGP, Secretary Pangandaman’s call for more inclusive and transparent governance remains at the forefront of the nation’s policy agenda. She is hopeful that, with continued public and institutional support, the Philippines can achieve its agenda for prosperity through a more open and participatory government.

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