By Nimfa L. Estrellado Councilor Razel John Barrera (center) calls for continued transparency after Calauag defers livestreaming of budget h...
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| Councilor Razel John Barrera (center) calls for continued transparency after Calauag defers livestreaming of budget hearings. (Kons Razel Barrera) |
CALAUAG, Quezon – Mayor Rosalina O. Visorde announced on November 5 that livestreaming of the town’s budget hearings will be temporarily delayed, citing the need for further review and safeguards. The decision follows the Sangguniang Bayan’s approval of a resolution to enhance transparency, though the mayor emphasized the need to balance openness with procedural integrity.
As a result of this decision, the mayor acknowledged the need for careful planning, stressing the importance of safeguards to ensure transparency while protecting sensitive information and preventing misinterpretation. She emphasized that the integrity of the budget process must be maintained to uphold public trust.
The decision comes after the Sangguniang Bayan approved Resolution No. 53, Series of 2025, which recommends broadcasting the town’s budget hearings on the municipal government’s official Facebook page. The resolution was authored by Councilor Razel John Barrera, who said livestreaming would promote transparency, accountability, and public participation.
Councilor Barrera expressed disappointment over the mayor’s decision to defer livestreaming, saying it delays residents’ oversight of public funds and limits their participation in local governance. He added that the proposal aimed to allow residents to see how public funds are planned and spent, reinforcing good governance and accountability.
He emphasized that every Calauagenyo has the right to know where their taxes go and how decisions affecting local projects are made. Councilor Barrera stressed that his stance is not directed against anyone but is a commitment to good governance, public accountability, and meaningful citizen participation.
“Despite this setback, I will continue advocating for honesty, transparency, and accountability in government, ensuring that every decision and public fund allocation is open to scrutiny. A government that has nothing to hide, and welcomes the participation and oversight of its citizens, earns the lasting trust of its people,” Councilor Barrera said.
He encouraged residents to stay engaged, noting that democracy thrives when citizens are informed and involved. Barrera added that one day, transparency and integrity in public service will become standard practice.
“I remain committed to being a steadfast ally of the people in promoting a government that is honest, open, and humane. Even if we face setbacks today, the dignity of standing for what is right can never be defeated,” Councilor Barrera concluded.
Mayor Visorde expressed support for transparency but emphasized the need to balance openness with proper procedures and confidentiality. She noted that sensitive discussions during budget hearings could be misinterpreted or prematurely revealed if broadcast live without safeguards.
The mayor highlighted that Calauag maintains a Full Disclosure Policy Board (FDPB) at three municipal locations, where residents can access annual budgets, financial statements, procurement plans, audit reports, and other public documents at any time.
“Our government remains committed to transparency and public participation while ensuring a professional and responsible process. We aim to provide residents with access to critical information without compromising the integrity of our deliberations,” Mayor Visorde stated.
The temporary deferral reflects a cautious approach that complies with legal requirements under the Data Privacy Act, Local Government Code, and Commission on Audit and Department of Budget and Management rules. Mayor Visorde encouraged collaboration between department heads and the Sangguniang Bayan to develop proper protocols and technical systems for future livestreaming initiatives.
“While national government activities involving billions of pesos can be broadcast live, local deliberations require careful planning to protect the integrity of discussions and sensitive information. Residents can review annual budgets, financial statements, procurement plans, and other reports at designated municipal locations at any time,” Mayor Visorde explained.
The mayor explained that delaying livestreaming allows the municipal government to assess technical, legal, and procedural requirements carefully. She emphasized that this approach maintains public trust while protecting sensitive deliberations from misinterpretation.
“Once proper systems and protocols are in place, livestreaming may be implemented in the future. This will allow residents to observe budget deliberations safely and transparently, giving them confidence that public funds are being managed responsibly,” Mayor Visorde said.
The move comes as Calauag joins other municipalities in Quezon province exploring ways to make local governance more open and accessible. Officials said the decision balances public access with responsible management of official proceedings, ensuring livestreaming can occur without compromising confidentiality or proper deliberation processes.
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