PRESIDENTIAL Communications Office acting Secretary Cesar Chavez on Monday hailed the groups and individuals who helped expand the reach of freedom of information in the country.

Chavez noted the efforts of FOI advocates further contributed to the government’s drive for transparency.

“We recognize and honor the individuals and organizations whose efforts have turned the FOI program into the beacon of openness which proudly stands today,” Chavez said in his speech delivered by Assistant Secretary Claudyn Marie Caparon at the 2024 FOI Awards.

“You have all turned visionary concepts into tangible outcomes and engendered meaningful progress. Further, you have each contributed to the edifice of transparency which the administration of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. is committed to building,” he added.

The FOI Awards is an annual event recognizing the dedication for advocacy of individuals and organizations that made significant contributions in promoting FOI.

It is the culmination of the annual FOI Summit, which provides an avenue “to continuously build and sustain communities of practice for accessing information mechanisms in the country.”

As he thanked the participants, Chavez expressed hopes that the ceremony will serve as a benchmark on contributing to uplifting and empowering Filipinos through providing access to public information.

“On behalf of the PCO family, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you and assure you of our unwavering support at every stage of this important journey,” he said. PCO

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