MANILA, Philippines - A partylist legislator has filed a bill seeking the live broadcast of proceedings of sessions and committee hearings of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Buhay partylist Rep. Lito Atienza filed House Bill 4049 which seeks the showing of live proceedings in Congress over the government-run TV station, the People's Television Network Inc. (PTNI).
Atienza said the Philippines needs to have an unprecedented access to its officials.
The bill seeks to amend Section 9 of the PTNI's Charter, Republic Act No. 7306 adding to its functions the showing of live proceedings of both chambers without editing nor commentary.
"The People of the Philippines are demanding transparency from their government officials. Officials whom they elected, and who need to make an accounting of their actions while in government," Atienza added.
Atienza is also pushing for the immediate passage of the Freedom of Information Act, which was not approved in the previous Congresses, prompting several groups to refile it.
"In the midst of all the exposes on the misuse of public funds, this is the best way to deter corrupt politicians trying to pocket the money of the people. I believe now is the best time for Congress to act and approve this bill as it is one way of proving to the people that we are sincere in cleaning house.
"It is our hope that once Congress passes this bill, it will make government transactions more transparent and will definitely promote good governance and accountability," Atienza said.