Leaders of the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP), led by its Chairperson, Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman, are set to gather at the DBM Central Office, Boncodin Hall, San Miguel, Manila, on January 15 to advocate for the OGP initiative and to hold the official media launch of the upcoming Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting (APRM).

 

 

The OGP aims to promote transparency, accountability, and civic participation in governance. The APRM, scheduled to take place from February 5 to 7, marks a significant step towards enhancing collaboration among government, civil society, and citizens.

 

This is the first time since the OGP was founded in 2011 that the Philippines is hosting the APRM. Approximately 700 local and international delegates are expected to attend, including heads of states, government officials, civil society leaders, and policymakers.

 

Secretary Mina emphasized the importance of the assembly in shaping the national agenda for the regional forum, which aims to facilitate meaningful discussions on best practices and innovative solutions to governance challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.

 

The official media launch of the APRM today will cover essential information regarding the Open Government Partnership, highlighting its key milestones and achievements. Frontrunners of the OGP will also delve into specific details about the APRM, including agenda items, strategic objectives, and collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing transparency and citizen engagement across the Philippines and the entire region.

 

This interaction underscores the vital role of the media in promoting transparency around open governance, fostering public awareness, and amplifying community voices.

 

DBM Secretary Mina will deliver the keynote speech, while Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin is slated to highlight the Philippine government's commitment to OGP principles.

 

Expected participants include Quezon City Mayor Ma Josefina “Joy” Belmonte, PH-OGP Co-Chairperson Aurora “Araw” Reyes Chavez, OGP Communications, Content, and Community Engagement Director Rudi Borrmann, Caucus of Development NGO Networks (CODE NGO) Executive Director Sandino Soliman, Public Services Labor Independent Confederation (PSLINK) President Dr. Annie Enriquez Geron, La Salle Institute of Governance (LSIG) Director Dr. Francisco Magno, as well as other sectoral representatives from the OGP Steering Committee. The program will be hosted by Ms. Daphne Oseña-Paez.

 

A panel discussion will also be organized to provide an opportunity for the media to engage directly with key stakeholders.