Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) gathered key government officials and partners to drum up support for the country’s hosting of the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting (APRM) scheduled for February 5 to 7. During a press gathering, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, who also serves as OGP-Philippines co-chair, emphasized the nation’s commitment to aligning national policies with open governance principles.

According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Pangandaman highlighted her focus on adjusting national fiscal policies to fit the open governance model since her appointment by the President. The APRM will convene delegates, including heads of state, government officials, civil society leaders, and policymakers, to explore best practices and innovative solutions to governance challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. This event marks the first time the Philippines will host the regional meeting since the OGP’s inception in 2011.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who was also present at the event, underscored the necessity of a collaborative approach to advancing open government. Bersamin stated that promoting open government extends beyond government responsibility and requires the participation and collaboration of all stakeholders. The OGP initiative includes 75 countries and 150 local governments, representing over two billion people, alongside thousands of civil society organizations advocating transparent, participatory, inclusive, and accountable governance.

To date, approximately 880 participants have expressed their intention to attend the gathering, with 359 international delegates among them. Secretary Pangandaman also invited the public to a fun run at the Quirino Grandstand on January 26, which will serve as the kickoff event for the OGP meeting. The fun run will feature three distances with registration fees: 3 km (PHP700), 5 km (PHP800), and 10 km (PHP1,000). Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Philippine Red Cross.