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Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo believes that the livestreamimg of Sangguniang Bayan sessions can promote greater transparency in local governance.

For this purpose, Salo filed House Bill (HB) No.11294, titled, "An Act Mandating the Livestreaming of Sangguniang Bayan Sessions, Amending for the Purpose Sections 50 and 52, Chapter III of Republic Act No. 7160, Otherwise Known as the 'Local Government Code of 1991".

Salo believes that digital technology offers unprecedented opportunities to enhance public access to government proceedings and strengthen citizen engagement.

Thus, the Local Government Code of 1991 needs to be updated to mandate the utilization of online streaming platforms to make local legislative sessions accessible to the public, he said.

“In a democratic country like ours, enhancing accessibility, inclusivity, and openness in governmental processes is imperative. Livestreaming legislative sessions fosters transparency and ensures that public officials are held accountable,” said Salo. 

The solon highlights that both Houses of Congress which have already been livestreaming their sessions have already paved the way to providing citizens with a front-row seat to observe policy formulation and decision-making processes. 

He also cited a study in Isabela City, Basilan which revealed how digital technology is vital in improving public service delivery and citizen engagement. 

Similarly, he also mentioned Laoag City Council in Ilocos Norte which has been livestreaming its sessions since July 2022, empowering residents by providing real-time access to discussions on measures affecting their city.

The bill introduces specific amendments to the Local Government Code, such as mandating LGUs to livestream all regular and special sessions on official social media pages and archive recordings for public access. Section 52 will be divided into two subsections: 52.A, requiring real-time livestreaming and archiving, and 52.B, which institutionalizes livestreaming to uphold transparency and accountability standards.

“This initiative modernizes governance, ensuring it evolves alongside today’s technological advancements. Livestreaming local legislative sessions not only combats misinformation but also fosters an informed and engaged citizenry,” Salo emphasized. 

“The proposed measure underscores the importance of using digital technology to bring governance closer to the people, setting a higher standard for public service in the Philippines," added the veteran solon.