DBM Secretary inspires Caraga’s student athletes on open gov’t
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman shared the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP) to the student athletes during the “PH-OGP sa Rehiyon Trese” on August 8 at the Provincial Learning Center (PLC) in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
Anchored on the theme, “OGP Sports: Bridging Athletics and Public Programs Through the Government,” the event inspired the young sports players from various universities and colleges in Caraga, including the different schools divisions of the Department of Education (DepEd) in the region, on PH-OGP’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, responsiveness, and citizen participation.
“In PH-OGP, what we are trying to instill not only among government employees, but also among students are the values of transparency, accountability, responsiveness, and citizen participation,” she said. “You, young athletes, are part of the open government. We want to make sure you have a seat at the table.”
Secretary Pangandaman also shared that the DBM is pushing for the institutionalization of the “People’s Right to Information Bill” which will grant all citizens equal access to government information at the national and local levels. “We have entered a renewed era of transparency in governance,” she added.
Attorney Jose Miguel B. Solis, acting director of the PhH-OGP, presented the program’s origins, mandates, and programs. “The OGP, as a global multi-stakeholder initiative, was founded in September 2011 by eight governments: the United States, Philippines, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, Norway, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, along with several civil society organizations.”
“At its heart, the OGP is about transparency, listening to citizens, and ensuring that leaders are held accountable. The OGP values the voice of the youth, which is why we encourage you to take part in government initiatives. In the Philippines, the OGP pushes to make our government more open, responsive, and inclusive for all,” he said.
“We are very happy to have an occasion like this to engage students, local government units, and other agencies in our call for an open government. Let this be the beginning of a stronger partnership, where your legacy extends beyond this podium and into the very foundations of public service. Together, let us co-create a sports sector that is open and empowering to every athlete’s journey.”
Jasmin, one of the student athletes, expressed gratitude to the activity for the insightful discussions on how the government, from national to local levels, provided support on sports development, especially on the youth. “Today, we learned of the ongoing efforts of the current administration to support and prioritize sports and the youth. This is a boost to our morale as athletes that our government cares for us and inspires us to champion in sports. ”(KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur)
