Miriam seeks inclusion of SALN in FOI bill

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago yesterday called for the inclusion of the statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) and the monthly income of public officials in the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill now pending in the Senate.

Santiago also wanted to include in the measure a provision mandating all government agencies to publish and make available for download in their respective websites such information as the audited financial statements and budget and expenditure records of the respective government agencies, as well as the SALN of public officials with salary grade 27 and above, pursuant to Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards of Public Officials and Employees.

Santiago also pushed for the inclusion of the monthly income, including allowances and sources of income, of all public officials with salary grade 27 and above.

Santiago urged Sen. Grace Poe, sponsor of the FOI bill, to also include in the coverage of FOI bill the performance review results of government agencies, as prescribed by the Anti-Red Tape Act (Republic Act No. 9485) and other relevant laws.

As author of the proposed Magna Carta for Philippine Internet Freedom, Santiago said the government should maximize the use of the Internet and information and communications technology (ICT) in disseminating information, and promoting transparency in governance.

“Government agencies should provide for and maintain their own websites which would allow the public to view and download public information on the plans, policies, programs, and relevant documents and records of their office,” she said.

Santiago said she is determined to push for the adoption of her amendment in the FOI bill despite opposition from some lawmakers.

Santiago also wanted government agencies to maintain in their websites the mechanisms to allow for the public to provide feedback, lodge complaints, or report instances of malfeasance or misfeasance, including anonymous feedback, complaints or reports.

The agencies are also required to take appropriate steps to protect persons making feedback, complaints or reports from retaliation or persecution.

Some sensitive personal information, such as an individual’s health records, sexual life and religious, philosophical or political affiliations, should be excluded from the coverage of the right to information under the FOI bill, she said.