MANILA – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday said the Freedom of Information (FOI) has contributed to the "promotion of an open and participatory government."
The recommendation to the incoming administration to retain the FOI policy was welcomed.
In an interview, it was stated that an agency group has already prepared their transition report for the incoming officials for endorsement. One initiative they wish the next administration will continue is the Freedom of Information program which acts as a transparency mechanism of the Executive branch.
Citing the Section 7 Article III 3 of the Philippine constitution, it allows the citizens to access “official records and to documents and papers pertaining to official acts, transactions, or decisions, as well as to government research data used as a basis for policy development” on all subjects and issues of public concern.
Despite the existing constitutional guarantee, it was emphasized
