By Nimfa L. Estrellado Councilor Russell John V. Barrera delivers his privilege speech urging transparency during the Calauag Municipal Coun...
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| Councilor Russell John V. Barrera delivers his privilege speech urging transparency during the Calauag Municipal Council’s regular session on October 22. (Calaug Sanggunian Bayan) |
CALAUAG, Quezon — Embracing technology to promote good governance, the Sangguniang Bayan of Calauag has recently approved a resolution to livestream its annual budget hearings. The initiative will allow residents to watch the sessions online, marking a new era of transparency and digital accessibility in local governance.
The council passed Resolution No. 53, Series of 2025, recommending that the local government broadcast the upcoming pre-budget and budget hearings through its official Facebook page. The move aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public participation, allowing residents to see how public funds are planned and discussed.
The measure, authored by Councilor Razel John Barrera, was approved with majority support, registering only one negative vote. The approval reflects the council’s recognition of the growing call for open and accessible governance among Calauag residents.
In his privilege speech during the regular session on October 22, Councilor Barrera urged his colleagues to support the push for greater transparency. He reminded them that public office is a trust granted by the people, and every decision must serve their interest.
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“This is not just about technology or social media,” Barrera said. “It is about giving the people the chance to witness how their leaders make decisions that directly impact their lives.”
Barrera stressed that the resolution to livestream the budget hearings is not just a procedural proposal but a firm commitment to openness. He explained that by allowing citizens to observe deliberations, the government strengthens its legitimacy and deepens public trust.
“If we have nothing to hide, then we have nothing to fear,” Barrera said. “The people deserve to see how their money is planned, discussed, and spent because transparency is the soul of accountability.”
He challenged public officials to embrace accountability and lead by example, urging them to act with honesty, fairness, and a genuine commitment to public service. Barrera further emphasized that transparency builds public confidence and ensures integrity in leadership.
Barrera clarified that his proposal was not about grandeur but enlightenment, saying public funds must be spent openly and responsibly. He stressed that transparency is not a weakness but the foundation of trust, and good governance is a duty, not a slogan.
He cited the 1987 Philippine Constitution, which guarantees the people’s right to information on matters of public concern. Barrera also referenced Republic Act No. 7160, the Local Government Code of 1991, and Executive Order No. 2, Series of 2016, or the Freedom of Information Order, as legal bases supporting transparency.
According to Barrera, these laws affirm that transparency and participation are not privileges but fundamental rights of every Filipino citizen. He said the proposal is not political but a reaffirmation of the government’s legal and moral obligations to the people.
He also acknowledged that some feared criticism or misinterpretation of the livestreaming initiative. However, he encouraged his colleagues to show courage and integrity by facing the public with honesty and confidence.
Barrera urged his fellow councilors to stand for honesty and public trust, saying a vote in favor of the resolution represents trust, dignity, and genuine service to the people. He added that opposing it would be a vote against transparency and accountability.
Despite earlier debates about technical and timing concerns, the council ultimately approved the resolution. One councilor reportedly voted against the measure, citing logistical issues related to its implementation.
Budget hearings, usually open to the public but seldom broadcast in smaller municipalities, will now be more accessible through the initiative. The Municipal Information Office will manage the livestream via the official Facebook page of the Municipal Government of Calauag, starting with the November 2025 budget hearings.
Residents have welcomed the move, saying it allows them to follow local budget discussions without needing to attend in person. Many believe the livestream will promote accountability and strengthen trust between the people and their leaders.
The council’s decision reaffirmed the importance of open governance and citizen participation. Calauag’s adoption of this policy is expected to set an example for other municipalities seeking to build transparent and participatory local governments.
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