Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos on Thursday lauded the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) after being recognized during the 2023 Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards.

FOI cited BJMP for its exceptional commitment to transparency and accountability in public service.

“We commend the BJMP for championing freedom of information and for upholding the people’s constitutional right to access information on matters of public concern,” Abalos said.

“This feat speaks volumes of the Jail Bureau’s proactive information disclosure efforts,” he added.

Organized by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the annual FOI Awards seeks to recognize the remarkable contributions of government offices in the executive branch, including government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and state universities and colleges (SUCs) to the development and progress of the FOI program.

This year, the BJMP was hailed among the “Top Requested and Performing Agencies” in the eFOI Portal with 250-499 requests and at least 90 percent closed transactions.

Abalos assured that the DILG, along with its attached agencies, will remain a staunch supporter of the eFOI Portal and will continue to significantly contribute to the development and success of the freedom of information program.

“Dissemination of accurate information empowers people and connects them to the government through rebuilding trust, which in turn, inspires progress,” he added.

Abalos continued that this is an important facet in fostering unity.

“Kaya asahan po ninyo na patuloy na makikiisa ang buong DILG family sa pagpapalakas ng FOI program ng pamahalaan,” he stressed.

BJMP Jail Director Ruel Rivera, and spokesperson and designated FOI Officer, Jail Chief Inspector Jayrex Bustinera received the award on behalf of the bureau during the 2023 FOI Awards at Hilton Manila.

Original Article at: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/Abalos-cites-BJMP-for-bagging-FOI-top-performer-award/NC-2023-1249