In an era marked by evolving governance challenges, the need for transparency and accountability is paramount. These democratic values promote trust between citizens and government institutions and are vital in ensuring a thriving society. They address the gaps in information flow, decision-making processes, and resource allocation that hinder effective governance.

Earlier this year, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. stressed that transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of governance and “everything that we do” in his administration. These statements have led to initiatives such as the Open Government Partnership and institutionalizing the digitalization of government processes and transactions.

In a democratic nation like the Philippines, it is important to recognize that the action of one sector of society may affect the nation in parts or in its entirety. Hence, a comprehensive whole-of-society approach involving key government institutions, members of the private sector, and civil society at large is needed to promote transparency and accountability in a systemic way. Every sector has an important role to play individually and through partnerships and collaborative actions and there is a need to spread awareness and create a venue for sectors to continuously gather and work together to ensure a sustained momentum in upholding transparency and accountability in the country.

Coincidentally, December 9 is the International Anti-Corruption Day designated by the UN Convention Against Corruption, to raise public awareness of the need for all members of society to work towards curbing corrupt activity and achieving transparent and accountable governance. It is along these lines that network-building and collaborative measures are seen to be integral.

In this light, the Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with Democracy Watch Philippines, will be organizing a town hall discussion entitled, “Whole-of-Society Approaches to Transparency and Accountability”, on 7 December 2023, Thursday, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (PHT).

This discussion brought together key stakeholders among the government, civil society, and professional organizations, as well as members of the private sector as a concerted effort to promote a culture of openness, integrity, and accountability within governance. Stakeholders also shared how collaborative approaches through networks and working with other members of society are integral to the success of their efforts. By mobilizing diverse stakeholders, this initiative also seeks to catalyze positive change and lay the foundation for a more transparent and accountable administration.