Senate passes information measure on third reading

THE Senate on Monday unanimously approved on third and final reading the people’s ownership of government information ( POGI) measure, its version of the freedom of information ( FOI) bill, which will allow the public to have access to information on matters of public concern.

Senate Bill 3208, or an Act Fortifying The people’s right of ownership over information held by the people’s government, however, still has a long way to go because the House of Representatives has yet to pass its own version in plenary.

Sponsored by Sen. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan 2nd, the measure seeks to address the legal loopholes that have allowed government agencies to openly disregard the people’s right to information.

Under the bill, the government agency that will refuse to release information to the public will have to explain its action in court.

The measure basically directs government agencies to fully disclose information on projects, transactions, documents and records pertaining to public interest by posting these on government websites.

“It is the state’s responsibility to make information available to the public, to set up practical and viable mechanisms to ensure the availability of information and prevent its abuse,” Honasan said.

However, the proposed law allows the non-disclosure of information if the revelation of such information will create a clear and present danger, or will lead to war, invasion or any external threat to the country.

It also exempts records of minutes, advice or opinions expressed during decision-making or policy formulation proceedings of all branches of government.

The measure also exempts requests for information pertaining to the personal information of a natural person other than the requesting party to protect their right to privacy, unless he or she has consented, in writing, to the disclosure of information.

“The POGI bill and our mission to give meaning to democracy are important milestones on this journey,” Honasan said.