By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
As part of the government’s proactive approach to opening its doors for citizens, Malacañang continues to champion initiatives that make this message of openness known to its constituents.
This, as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 119, directs all government agencies to support and participate in the observance of the 2026 Open Government Week.
“All national government agencies and instrumentalities, including GOCCs, SUCs, and LGUs, are hereby directed to render full support and participation in the programs and activities during the 2026 Open Government Week, including the designation of one (1) day within 18 to 22 May 2026 as their “Open Government Day” or “Open House Day,” during which they may open their offices and/or facilities to the public and conduct activities that promote transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.”
The week-long event enjoins various entities to partake in programs that reinforce the administration’s commitment towards open governance and enhanced public service delivery.
Anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023–2028, the initiative advances one of the administration’s key governance strategies: improving bureaucratic efficiency while strengthening participatory governance and citizen engagement across the public sector.
The observance also builds on Proclamation No. 916, s. 2025, signed by President Marcos Jr. last year, which declared the third week of May of every year as Open Government Week to promote public awareness, encourage citizen participation, and highlight innovations in governance.
Budget Secretary Rolando “Rolly” Toledo said in a statement, “We call on all government agencies, together with our partners from local government units, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to actively participate in this whole-of-government effort toward more open, accountable, and inclusive governance.”
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