FridayOL

Iloilo City, Philippines – Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman has urged local government units (LGUs) in Iloilo to fully embrace and institutionalize the principles of open governance, aligning with the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP). This call to action was delivered during a recent mass oath-taking ceremony for provincial officials, including re-elected Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in public service.

Secretary Pangandaman emphasized that the PH-OGP shouldn’t be viewed as a mere program but as a fundamental shift in how government operates. She challenged Iloilo's LGUs to make open governance a shared mission, a standard practice embedded within their daily operations and service delivery. The aim is to foster greater public trust and participation in governance, ultimately leading to more effective and responsive government.

“By embracing open governance, we empower citizens to actively participate in shaping their communities and holding their leaders accountable,” Secretary Pangandaman stated. “This is not just about transparency; it's about creating a culture of collaboration and ensuring that government decisions are made in the best interest of the people.”

Why Open Governance Matters for Iloilo

Iloilo, known for its vibrant economy and rich cultural heritage, stands to gain significantly from adopting open governance practices. Here's why:

• Increased Transparency: Openly sharing government data and processes allows citizens to understand how decisions are made and how public funds are spent.
• Improved Accountability: Greater scrutiny from the public can deter corruption and ensure that officials are held responsible for their actions.
• Enhanced Citizen Participation: Open governance creates avenues for citizens to provide feedback, contribute ideas, and actively participate in policy-making.
• Better Service Delivery: By understanding citizen needs and preferences, LGUs can tailor their services to better meet those needs.
• Stronger Public Trust: When government operates transparently and accountably, it builds trust with the public, fostering a stronger sense of community.

Moving Forward: Institutionalizing Open Governance

Secretary Pangandaman stressed that institutionalizing open governance requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and the public. Key steps include:

• Developing Open Governance Policies: LGUs should formulate clear policies and guidelines that promote transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
• Investing in Technology: Utilizing digital platforms and tools to disseminate information and facilitate citizen engagement.
• Training Government Employees: Equipping government employees with the skills and knowledge to implement open governance practices.
• Engaging Civil Society: Collaborating with civil society organizations to monitor government performance and advocate for greater transparency.
• Promoting Public Awareness: Educating the public about the benefits of open governance and how they can participate.

Governor Defensor Jr., reaffirming his commitment to good governance, pledged to work closely with the DBM and other stakeholders to implement open governance initiatives in Iloilo. He recognized that embracing transparency and accountability is crucial for sustainable development and improving the quality of life for all Ilonggos.

The call to action from Secretary Pangandaman serves as a timely reminder of the importance of open governance in building a more inclusive, accountable, and prosperous Philippines. By embracing this shared mission, Iloilo can set an example for other LGUs across the nation.