Bangkok:Civil society organizations from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have identified the proposed Right to Information (RTI) Act of the Philippines as a potential model for Southeast Asia. This recognition came during a regional forum on access to information and information integrity held in Bangkok.

According to Philippines News agency, the Access to Information and Information Integrity in the Digital Age forum was organized by UNESCO's Regional Office in Bangkok and the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand. The event was part of the International Day of Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) observance.

Forum moderator Wathshlah Naidu, Executive Director of the Centre for Independent Journalism Malaysia, emphasized that the Philippines' proposed RTI Act is advanced compared to many ASEAN countries. Naidu noted that if enacted and improved, the RTI Act could become a leading framework globally. Atty. Ma. Danica Orcullo of the Freedom of Information-Program Management Office (FOI-PMO) highlighted the importance of tailoring international standards to fit the country's context.

The Philippines' journey towards a national freedom of information law began in 1987, with significant progress made through Executive Order No. 2 in 2016, which operationalized the right to information within the Executive Branch. The proposed RTI Act is now a legislative priority, with both the Senate and the House of Representatives having passed versions awaiting reconciliation.

The existing FOI mechanism has impacted various government sectors, including local government units that have adopted access to information measures. Youth involvement in FOI initiatives, exemplified by efforts in Kawit, Cavite, demonstrates growing engagement at the community level.