The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) proudly emerged as the 2024 Freedom of Information (FOI) Champion in the State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) category at the FOI Awards held on 25 November 2024 at the Hilton Manila Hotel.
This prestigious event, organized by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) through its FOI Program Management Office, recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to promoting transparency and accountability through the institutionalization of the FOI Program. It brings together diverse stakeholders, including FOI officers, government agencies, institutional partners, and civil society organizations, united in their commitment to advancing access to information and empowering citizens through effective implementation of the program.
Receiving the FOI Champion Award for the second time, with the first in 2021 and now in 2024, underscores USeP’s continued commitment to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability both within the academic community and beyond. This recognition highlights the University’s consistent success in implementing FOI policies, its innovative initiatives to raise awareness about citizens’ right to information, and its efforts to establish a robust mechanism for public access to data.
The award was received on behalf of USeP by FOI Officers Dr. Joan D. Gervacio, Mr. Robert C. Satorre, and Ms. Lauren Monique B. Ramos.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., USeP President, highlighted the importance of transparency in governance and the role of FOI in building trust and accountability. Since assuming leadership in 2023, Dr. Gabales has made transparency a central priority, reaffirming USeP’s commitment to a strong FOI program that provides access to scholarly data and relevant University information. Reflecting on USeP’s recognition as FOI Champion in 2021 and 2024, he acknowledged the collective efforts of the University and pledged to continue empowering stakeholders and fostering an informed society.
Adding to the University’s achievements, Mr. Robert C. Satorre, University Records Officer, was recognized as one of the Best FOI Officers in the country for 2024, a distinction he also received in 2021. This recognition celebrates his exemplary leadership, dedication, and commitment to advancing FOI advocacy within USeP and beyond.
USeP’s achievements at the 2024 FOI Awards signify the University’s leadership in promoting transparency and accountability in higher education. These recognitions reflect not only the effectiveness of USeP’s FOI initiatives but also its broader mission to uphold good governance, empower stakeholders, and contribute to a more informed and participatory society. As an exemplar of transparency, USeP continues to set a standard for institutional integrity and public service in the Philippines.
