WITHOUT THE freedom to information, exacting accountability in the exercise of power would be impossible.
This, according to Political Science Instructor Joy Aceron is the reason why the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, which expands the right to procure any form of information from the government, should be passed. “While the right to information is constitutionally guaranteed, there is a need for a law to ensure that non-compliance of government instrumentalities are sanctioned,” she said.
Aceron is also a member of the anti-corruption group, G-Watch.
All are concerned While the bill would mostly benefit those who need documents and knowledge from the government, Aceron said that the bill’s passage is a concern of every Filipino because abuse of power could be easily hidden without it.
“Anybody could be victims of abuse,” Aceron said. Junior Political Science course representative Iriz Beleno agreed and said that increasedtransparency is vital in mitigating corruption.
“We will know where our taxes are spent and know more about the government’s scandals.” Vincent Lazatin, Executive Director of Transparency and Accountability Network, said that access to government data better facilitates meaningful participation of the people in government.
Easier check and balance
Aside from transparency, the bill would also make work easier for anti-corruption groups and journalists.
“For civil society organizations exacting accountability from the government or doing anti-corruption work, a Freedom of Information law is very critical to improve their effectiveness,” Aceron said.
Lazatin explained that government and officials usually purposely delay the release of information, hindering the work of civil society. “They won’t deny you the information but they make some [excuses],” he said.
Aceron cited the NBN-ZTE deal controversy as an example. She said that they requested a copy of the deal’s contract from the concerned government agencies three years ago. Until now, they haven’t received the data they thought were crucial in the case.
The deal was a prominent scandal of the Arroyo administration, involving a US$ 329 million-worth contract.
Because of these instances, Lazatin also said that the bill is not really in the interest of most politicians. “A lot of them have things to hide,” he said.
Also known as HB 3732, the Freedom of Information Act of 2008 is the substitute for previous freedom of information bills, the first of which was filed 14 years ago.
Although still lacking major provisions of the FOI bill, RA 6713, the Code of Conduct of Public Officials, is the closest equivalent of an enabling law requiring public officials to provide information in a clear and understandable language, and to ensure openness to information.
