Communications Secretary Martin Andanar has renewed calls for legislators to support and pass the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill in the remainder of President Duterte’s term.
During the Annual FOI Awards on Wednesday, November 24, Andanar said that the implementation of the FOI Program in the Executive Branch has already proved itself useful in promoting effective governance and ensuring public welfare, especially in crisis situations.
He said the executive brsnch is pushing for the passing of the FOI bill
"Our countrymen, as much as possible without demand, should be provided with timely and relevant information," he said.
He noted that it was high time for the Philippines to have an all-encompassing FOI mechanism.
"We owe it to the Filipino people to have an all-encompassing FOI mechanism in the country. I appeal to our lawmakers to double the time and effort in making the change happen before the end of this administration," he said.
Andanar added that he is looking forward to FOI being implemented across all branches of the government and down to the local government units (LGUs).
"Our desire for development requires transparency and accountability, and this is not one man’s job," he said.
"The fulfillment of our vision requires cooperation and collective action. Ergo, no efforts and not a single dime shall be put in vain when it is for the benefit of our countrymen," he added.
In his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July, President Duterte himself urged Congress to pass the FOI bill.