Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 31)
The main purpose of Executive Order No. 31 is to institutionalize the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP) as a multi-stakeholder partnership responsible for overseeing and implementing the country's commitments to the Open Government Partnership (OGP) and to ensure that open government values are embedded in government policies and programs.
The PH-OGP Steering Committee is chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
The key values emphasized are transparency, accountability, citizen participation, technology, and innovation.
The Steering Committee is composed of the Executive Secretary; Secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority; Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government; Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development; four (4) non-permanent government sector representatives identified by the Chairperson; National President of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines; and ten (10) CSO representatives.
Their term is equivalent to the period of the PH-OGP National Action Plan (NAP) cycle.
The Committee sets policy direction for the PH-OGP and NAP, integrates open government principles into governance, monitors and evaluates NAP implementation, publishes annual reports, develops communication and advocacy plans, and exercises other powers as defined in its Terms of Reference.
The Committee holds regular quarterly meetings and special meetings when needed. A quorum requires at least eleven (11) members with significant representation from both government and CSO members.
The POC coordinates OGP activities locally and internationally, engages stakeholders, organizes initiatives, leads regional and international participation, and acts as a liaison between government and non-government entities.
CSO members are elected through a selection process designed independently by the incumbent CSO members and confirmed by the PH-OGP Steering Committee.
Initial implementation funding is charged against the available appropriations of PH-OGP Steering Committee member-agencies, subject to budgeting, accounting, and auditing laws. Operational expenses are charged against the DBM's appropriations.
If any part is held unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining provisions not affected will remain in full force and effect.
It took effect immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.