The Department of Science and Technology with Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs Diana L. Ignacio received the FOI Champion Award (Department Category) given by PCO.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) was hailed as the 2024 Freedom of Information (FOI) Champion in the Department Category by the Presidential Communication Office (PCO) during the 2024 FOI Awards on Nov. 25, 2024, in Hilton Hotel, Pasay City.
The FOI Awards is a distinguished recognition conferred to Local Water Districts, State Universities and Colleges, Bureaus/Councils/Agencies, Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations, and National Government Agencies, for their exceptional contribution to the FOI progress and development. This award confirms the Department’s commitment to transparency and the accessibility of information from research and development, scientific and technical services, technology transfer initiatives, and other support services.
It also reflects the tireless efforts of the DOST-FOI Team composed of the DOST-Central Office, Regional Offices Decision Makers, and Receiving Officers.
DOST Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs Diana L. Ignacio received the award on behalf of Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. Asst. Secretary Ignacio is also the FOI Champion for the Department.
“Sa tamang impormasyon mula sa siyensya, tamang desisyon at aksyon ating maasahan. Sa madaling access sa impormasyon, tayo ay pagkakatiwalaan ng mamamayan,” said Asst. Secretary Ignacio during the acceptance of the award.
[“With the right information from science, we can expect the right decisions and actions. With easy access to information, we will earn the trust of the people.”]
Additionally, two DOST Attached Agencies were also recognized during the awarding ceremony. The Technology Application and Promotion Institute received the 2nd place for FOI Agency Category while the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration is among the Top Requested and Performing Agencies in the eFOI Portal.
Mr. Jhoven G. Litana, awarded as the Best FOI Receiving Officer during the 2024 FOI Awards by the Presidential Communication Office.
Another highlight of the event was the Best FOI Receiving Officer award, which was presented to Mr. Jhoven G. Litana, Chief Administrative Officer, ALS-General Services Division, and former DOST FOI Receiving Officer.
The award is given to individuals from government agencies and institutions who have exemplified immense progress and performance in FOI Implementation.
With this recognition, DOST is bent to continue building on its success, advancing innovation, and contributing to the continued growth of transparency and accessibility of information.
The FOI Champion Award underscores the agency’s commitment to transparency and reinforces the determination to lead and inspire in the field of science, technology, and innovation.
