MANILA – In a compelling appeal for nationwide participation, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary, Benhur Abalos, called on local government units (LGUs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) across the country to actively support the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Local program.
The OGP Local initiative acts as an onboarding platform for new members already engaged in Open Government initiatives. Participants collaborate to devise and execute local OGP action plans through a multi-stakeholder co-creation process, aiming to cultivate a more transparent, accountable, and responsive government.
Abalos emphasized that OGP inherently aligns with the government’s whole-of-nation approach. He highlighted the pivotal role of LGUs, CSOs, and other stakeholders as essential contributors to innovative and enhanced local governance through the OGP Local initiative.
Underlining the collaborative synergy between LGUs and CSOs within the OGP framework, Abalos pointed out the broad opportunities it creates for both government and non-government stakeholders, fostering transparency and citizen empowerment. Furthermore, the program envisions combating corruption and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to elevate governance standards at the grassroots level.
Committing to the advocacy of Open Government, Abalos reiterated the DILG’s steadfast dedication to supporting and strengthening PH-OGP initiatives. This commitment resonated with the recent Mindanao leg of OGPinas in Cagayan de Oro City, attended by approximately 200 representatives from diverse government and private offices.
Representing Secretary Abalos, DILG Assistant Secretary Ester A. Aldana echoed the call for unwavering commitment, continuous support, and the fortification of PH-OGP advocacies and activities. The institutionalization of PH-OGP through Executive Order No. 31, s. 2023, aims to enrich and broaden the avenues for dialogue and partnership between the government and civil society groups. (Presidential News Desk)
