Freedom of Information

Flashback to May 29, 2012 where Chief Justice Corona stands among the members of Congress awaiting a monumental verdict. Televised live, Filipinos nationwide watch as Corona is found guilty for graft and corruption. The impeachment of Corona marks yet another evidence for the on the lack of honesty of authorities. It is no question that corruption is a standard in Philippine society. The question remains as to why it has never been eradicated throughout so many years. Efforts upon efforts of committed government employees and leaders are desperately trying to prevent it from causing more economic damage but unfortunately, success is far within reach. The hopes of possibly doing so are again being brought up as a new bill emerges. The freedom of information bill states that The right of the people to information on matters of public concern shall be recognized. Access to official records, and to documents, and papers pertaining to official acts, transactions, or decisions, as well as to government research data used as basis for policy development, shall be afforded the citizen, subject to limitations as may be provided by law. This paper aims to provide pro and con arguments pertaining to the bill. Through the supporting details and evidences, the bill should be passed. In order for the Philippines to progress economically, politically, and socially, the freedom of information is necessary. The first argument stems from the essence of the bill. As citizens, it is only right that we have access to the assets, transactions, and liabilities of our officials. We, the Filipino people are the ones paying the taxes either directly or indirectly to the

government for the sake of developing the country. It is the responsibility of the government to make use of the taxes paid by improving the current state of the country. Allotted budgets are given to the officials for different projects that benefit the community economically, politically, and socially. With this in mind, the people must be fully aware of where the money goes. What then is a democratic system of government when it does not work for the people? A counter argument to the passing of the freedom of information bill is that it disregards the officials right to privacy. They too are human beings entitled with rights that must be protected and respected. It is an invasion of privacy for an official to state ones assets and liabilities unless proven guilty. The officials also need breathing space in their lives without being overly watched. The second argument as to why the freedom of information bill should be passed is the fact that it can possibly eliminate corruption. By knowing where exactly the taxes go people can ensure that it is not simply sneaking into the officials pockets. Also, by approving of the bill, the officials prove that there is nothing to hide. It signifies the integrity of the officials that they are able state their assets with assurance. Accountability is the cornerstone of integrity. If in the case that unexplained assets come up, the corrupt will be exposed to the public. Therefore, they will be more cautious on the decisions they make. One can argue that corruption is ingrained in Philippine culture that it is perceived inevitable. Corruption is so rampant that it will then be a useless attempt to eliminate it.

The people have passively accepted this certainty and our adaptability to adjust to change is limited. Therefore, it would be a waste of time and effort to advocate the bill. The third reason for approving of the bill is that it promotes citizen participation. The people will be more inclined to making themselves aware of government related endeavors. The people will also then be more open to a just or equitable society where they are capable of fighting against any unduly actions. In other words, the people can easily monitor the performance and effectiveness of the government. In a way, freedom of information also promotes democracy as it looks to engage the people on the political aspect of the country. The reason why the bill is undesired is that it can cause civil unrest. To an extent, civil unrest will occur due to the heavy dissemination of government actions. The people may react to every single issue that they can think of. Numerous protests and retaliations can arise from the information that the people have acquired. As a result, the government will be ineffective since the people can constantly criticize their actions. It can hold true that the bill is not fully pledged because of the harsh reality that it can ruin the reputations of officials. However, it is in the best interests of the people and the country that transparency is acknowledged. The pros have evidently shown that it outweighs the cons with regards to freedom of information. In conclusion, if the country has any hopes of eliminating corruption, steps like approving the freedom of information bill is necessary.