MANILA – The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has rallied government officials and partners to bolster support for the Philippines’ hosting of the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting (APRM), scheduled for February 5 to 7. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, who co-chairs OGP-Philippines, highlighted the nation’s dedication to integrating open governance principles into its national policies during a press conference.
Pangandaman stated, “Since the President entrusted me with leading the DBM, one of our priorities has been to adjust our national fiscal policies to align with the principles of open governance.” The APRM will convene a diverse group of delegates, including heads of state, government officials, civil society leaders, and policymakers, to share best practices and innovative solutions to governance challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
This marks the first time the Philippines will host the regional meeting since the OGP’s inception in 2011. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, present at the event, underscored the necessity of a collaborative approach to promote open government, stating, “The promotion of open government is not solely the government’s responsibility; it is a collective mission requiring participation and collaboration from all stakeholders.”
The OGP, a multi-stakeholder initiative, encompasses 75 countries and 150 local governments, representing over two billion people and numerous civil society organizations advocating for transparent, participatory, inclusive, and accountable governance. To date, 880 participants, including 359 international delegates, have confirmed their attendance.
Pangandaman also extended an invitation to the public for a fun run at the Quirino Grandstand on January 26, marking the kickoff of the OGP meeting. The run offers three distances with varying registration fees: 3 km (PHP700), 5 km (PHP800), and 10 km (PHP1,000). All proceeds will be donated to the Philippine Red Cross.