NBI feted in FOI Awards 2024

CEBU, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) received the Top Performing and Most Requested Award in the recently concluded Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards 2024.

The award, presented by the Presidential Communications Office-Program Management Office (FOI-PMO), recognizes government agencies’ implementation of electronic Freedom of Information (eFOI) and is given to those that received more than 1,000 eFOI requests with at least 90% closed transactions.

NBI Director Jaime B. Santiago, in a statement, said that the Bureau is honored to receive the award.

Santiago emphasized that the award is not only a recognition of the NBI’s work, but also a reminder of its ongoing commitment to public service and the ideals of openness and transparency.

The FOI program, established through Executive Order No.2 s.2016, promotes transparency and accountability by allowing citizens to request documents, records, and data from government agencies, government-owned corporations, and local government units.

While exemptions include national security, personal information, and confidential data, requests can be made online through the eFOI Portal or directly to designated FOI officers.

According to FOI Philippines, this annual event recognizes the exceptional dedication and passion for advocacy of individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions in the national FOI practice.

In his closing speech for the 2024 FOI Awards, Undersecretary Jose Maria Villarama II expressed his heartfelt gratitude and encouragement to all FOI Champions, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and dedication to advancing transparency and access to information.

He further inspired them to remain dynamic and motivated by the shared vision of a thriving and inclusive society, a Bagong Pilipinas where freedom of information is given premium, upheld, and exercised at all levels of governance. — (FREEMAN)