The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) concluded the final leg of its OGPinas! nationwide advocacy campaign in Clark, gathering stakeholders from various sectors to promote open and participatory governance.
The campaign aims to foster collaboration between government and civil society to address social concerns effectively and sustainably.
In her keynote address, DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman urged participants to advocate for accountability and inclusivity in governance.
“Let’s unite towards building a New Philippines where the government is open—open to the public, the youth, women, workers, and the bright future of our people,” she said.
Pangandaman highlighted the milestones of the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP) since its establishment over a decade ago, including its institutionalization through Executive Order No. 31 signed by President Marcos Jr. in 2023.
She cited key achievements such as the amendment of the two-decade-old Government Procurement Reform Act, now called the New Government Procurement Act, which embeds transparency and efficiency in public procurement processes. The government also launched the Inclusive Procurement Program, promoting fairness while addressing gender and ethnic equity, poverty reduction, and labor standards.
As part of open government efforts, the Support and Assistance Fund for Participatory Budgeting has been introduced, benefiting 75 municipalities with improved water, sanitation, and climate-smart evacuation centers. Among the beneficiaries are Dinalungan, Aurora, and Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija in Central Luzon, identified through civil society input.
Pangandaman noted the Philippines’ top ranking in public participation in Southeast Asia and budget transparency in Asia, as reported in the Open Budget Survey 2023.
“Through initiatives like the People’s Budget series, the public can now clearly see how government funds are allocated for programs and projects,” she added, calling for continued efforts to sustain the country’s commitments under the 6th PH-OGP National Action Plan.
DBM Regional Director Rosalie Abesamis emphasized the importance of collaboration in shaping responsive government policies. “Together, we can build a future where openness is not just an idea but a reality, ensuring every citizen has a voice in governance,” she said.
Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia Pineda expressed her support for PH-OGP programs, highlighting their role in encouraging genuine citizen participation and fostering collaboration between government and non-governmental organizations.
The OGPinas! campaign reflects the government’s push for transparency and inclusivity as pillars of sustainable development.
