Infanta declares annual Open Government Week to strengthen transparency

By Rowena T. Cruz Mayor Lord Arnel L. Ruanto signs Executive Order No. 31 declaring the third week of May as “Open Government Week” in Infan...

By Rowena T. Cruz

Mayor Lord Arnel L. Ruanto signs Executive Order No. 31 declaring the third week of May as “Open Government Week” in Infanta during a ceremony held on May 18. (Municipal Government of Infanta)

INFANTA, Quezon - As part of the local government’s effort to become more open to the public, the Municipal Government of Infanta launched programs and activities aimed at improving public service and community involvement. The initiative aims to encourage transparency, accountability, and greater public participation in local governance.

The move was formalized under Executive Order No. 31, Series of 2026 signed on May 18 declaring the third week of May every year as “Open Government Week” in Infanta. The observance supports the nationwide campaign encouraging government agencies and local governments to adopt more open and participatory governance practices.



Mayor Lord Arnel L. Ruanto led the signing of the executive order during the May 18 ceremony in Infanta. The local government said the initiative reflects its commitment to honest, inclusive, and people-centered public service.

Speaking during the signing, Mayor Ruanto highlighted the importance of transparency, accountability, and active public participation in local governance. He also encouraged residents to join activities promoting open and responsive leadership in the municipality.

The local initiative supports the nationwide observance of Open Government Week from May 18 to 22 under Memorandum Circular No. 119 signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.. The memorandum directs government agencies and local government units to support activities promoting transparency and citizen participation.

National government agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations, state universities and colleges, and LGUs were instructed to participate in the observance. Agencies were also encouraged to hold an “Open Government Day” or “Open House Day” to give the public access to government offices and facilities.

The observance is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, which aims to improve government services and public participation. It also follows Proclamation No. 916 signed in 2025 declaring the third week of May every year as Open Government Week nationwide.

The Department of Budget and Management, through the Philippine Open Government Partnership Steering Committee, will oversee the implementation of activities and guidelines nationwide. Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo said the initiative aims to make government services more accessible and responsive through cooperation among agencies, local governments, civil society groups, and the private sector.

Infanta is among the local government units in Quezon Province publicly observing Open Government Week through a formal municipal declaration and related activities. The municipal government said the initiative aims to build a more open and responsive local government while encouraging residents to take a more active role in community governance.