Manila, May 20 -- Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman has emphasized that open governance is not just an advocacy campaign but also a "cornerstone of a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines)."

She urged open governance champions to join the crusade for government transparency and stability to safeguard democratic values.

"We must safeguard the values of democracy that embody the power of the people: freedom of speech, public participation, and equality, among others," Pangandaman said during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Open Government Week on Monday at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City.

"As we kick off this year's celebration, let us remember that open government is more than just a concept or a campai...