Civil society organisations’ (CSOs) participation in policy and budget processes is crucial in promoting transparency and accountability in the government.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) backs the immediate passage of House Bill No. 7407 entitled “An Act Institutionalizing the Participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the Preparation and Authorization Process of the Annual National Budget, Providing Effective Mechanisms Therefore and for Other Purposes.”

This proposal enriches public participation, not only in the implementation of programmes and projects—akin to the provisions of the Local Government Code—but also institutionalises grassroots participation and better accountability for public funds. In this way, the bill lends a louder voice to civil society so that taxes redound to communities’ benefit by funding initiatives that genuinely address problems on the ground.

CSOs provide an in-depth knowledge on policy issues concerning public needs and priorities though grassroots networks, communities, and various sectors. Recognising civil society’s ability to analyse budgets and participate effectively can play an integral role not only in policies and public service delivery but also in constructing a more open and participatory democratic society.

With access to budget information and budgeting processes, CSOs can also call out inappropriate programs and policies that waste public’s money and mitigate corrupt practices within institutions.

The CHR is hopeful that this measure will lead the way in mainstreaming the principles of participation, equity, and social justice into our budget processes.

Budgetary process directly impact the realisation of human rights and social justice. We are optimistic that through this proposed legislation, CSOs and the public at large can exercise their right to information and participation in national budget allocation while demanding fair distribution of resources among the most deprived and marginalised segments of our society. We hope the Senate can equally support this measure. ###