Manila: Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman praised the establishment of open government practices within local government units (LGUs), asserting that it will lead to 'better, faster, and more responsive' services for citizens. This development follows the directive from Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who urged LGUs to spearhead efforts in promoting open governance and to incorporate its principles into governmental policies and programs.
According to Philippines News Agency, Pangandaman, who chairs the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP), emphasized the significance of grassroots participation for real change. She acknowledged the efforts of President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' R. Marcos Jr. and the DILG in advancing open government initiatives. "Implementing the principles of open government at the local level ensures that its benefits reach every Filipino, especially those in the regions," Pangandaman stated, expressing gratitude to DILG Secretary Remulla for his support.
The DBM, in collaboration with the DILG and the PH-OGP Project Management Office (PMO), has been actively promoting open government among LGUs through projects like the OGPinas! nationwide advocacy campaign and Dagyaw town halls. The OGPinas! campaign is designed to enhance transparency and citizen participation, while the Dagyaw Town Halls serve as a platform for addressing grassroots concerns and influencing policy and decision-making.
In addition, the DBM has engaged in roundtable discussions and bilateral meetings to evaluate the readiness of LGUs to join the OGP Local Program. As of April 2024, the Philippines has five active members participating in the OGP Local Program: South Cotabato; Tagbilaran City, Bohol; Larena, Siquijor; Quezon City; and Baguio City.
Pangandaman noted that the DILG's new directive would establish the foundation for the OGP Localization Program, aimed at transforming LGUs into globally competitive open government leaders. This initiative supports the co-creation and implementation of open government reforms through active collaboration with civil society organizations. "With more local government units embracing the open government principles, we get closer to creating a more just, transparent, and empowered society. The momentum is here-and it is local," she concluded.
