BukSU Attends PCO’s Freedom of Information Hangouts Event

The Freedom of Information-Program Management Office (FOI-PMO) under the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) conducted the Mindanao leg for the 2024 FRO Receiving Officers (FROs) Handouts at the Eulogia Hotel, General Santos City on August 1, 2024.

The event provided FROs with relevant updates on the implementation of the FOI Program and the latest developments in the Electronic FOI (eFOI) Portal, promoting transparency and enhancing public service delivery.

Representing Bukidnon State University (BukSU) were Ms. Astred Jill A. Catolpos, Head of the Presidential Technical Operations and BukSU’s FRO, along with Ms. Nova Thirdy E. Agravante, Information Officer I of the BukSU- Information Unit.

Ms. Dianne M. Gammad, Senior Compliance Monitoring Officer, delivered a presentation on FOI requirements, highlighting the role of FOI in ensuring transparency and accountability within government operations. Her presentation also highlighted how FOI empowers citizens by giving them access to critical public information, enabling them to avail of government services more efficiently and effectively.

Mr. Francis Nicolai P. Pallada, PCO’s Information Technology Officer, introduced the eFOI Portal v 3.0. The upgraded portal promised enhanced features to simplify requesting and obtaining government information. By streamlining these processes, the portal aims to reduce bureaucratic barriers, fostering greater public trust and participation in governance.

Access to accurate and timely information is fundamental for citizens to make informed decisions, participate actively in democratic processes, and hold government officials accountable.

FOI is an enabler of good governance, promoting transparency and fostering trust between the government and the public. It ensures that citizens can access the services they need, understand government policies, and engage meaningfully.

The event concluded with a synthesis of key takeaways by participants and the reading of the FOI Manifesto, reaffirming their dedication to upholding transparency and accountability principles.

BukSU implements the FOI through the FOI portal, and the FOI details are accessible through the BukSU Website at the Transparency Seal, No. 20. (Astred Jill E. Agravante, BukSU-Presidential Technical Operations/DevCom Faculty)