Filipinos must be careful of China-backed Telco
Now six months into the COVID-19 induced lockdown, the importance of digital technologies in our daily lives has never been so evident. However, the potential of digital technologies is limited by our digital infrastructure, which, despite efforts from major Filipino telecom players, remains plagued by red tape, bureaucratic mismanagement, and inefficient and excessive permit processes. […]
The National Budget Must Prioritize Digital Infrastructures
Over the course of our nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, digital tools have proven to be vital in addressing both immediate and long-term needs. Online banking and e-commerce have facilitated the disbursement of social amelioration and have built a framework to allow business transactions to continue despite lockdown restrictions. Web-based collaboration software has allowed […]
Adoption of Technology to Combat Corruption
In the same way that digital solutions have allowed us to adapt to the “new normal,” technology, particularly that which harnesses the power of big data, has immense potential when it comes to addressing the systemic issues of corruption.
Free press towards rule of law & democracy
In their recent event, PBA Talks, the Philippine Bar Association raised the question of whether or not the government is ‘weaponizing’ the law against media. This is timely given the non-renewal of network giant ABS-CBN’s franchise, the conviction of noted journalist Maria Ressa of Rappler for cyber-libel, and the passing of the controversial and much-contested Anti-Terrorism Law. […]
Good healthcare and good governance is integral to recovery
Democracy Watch Philippines calls on legislators to ensure that the Universal Health Care and National Integrated Cancer Control Acts, two landmark health legislations that mandates the strengthening of our health systems, be given the appropriations needed for immediate implementation.
A United Front for Democracy & Rule of Law against Chinese Expansionism
It is high time that the government fulfill its mandate and prove our democracy; it must build alliances with other democratic nations and stand up for our sovereignty and the rule of law.
E-Governance as a Stepping Stone towards Transparency & Accountability
The removal of bureaucratic chokepoints will facilitate the swift development of ICT infrastructure, making e-governance accessible to every Filipino. Besides removing red tape, the national government should also put a premium on public-sector investments in digital structure, especially in underserved areas. After all, in our journey into a more democratic, transparent, and accountable normal, no Filipino can be left behind.
Digital Advances towards a Transparent and Accountable Democracy
Democracy Watch Philippines believes that the COVID-19 has brought risks, but it has also brought opportunities for change. Civil society must make a collective effort to ensure that these opportunities, particularly e-governance, are harnessed in the pursuit of greater accountability and transparency, and the strengthening of our oversight and watchdog institutions. Such efforts will go a long way in building a mature democracy and a responsive government.
Transparency and Accountability: Regaining Public Trust through Democratic Governance
Democracy Watch Philippines, in partnership with Stratbase ADR Institute and Transparency International-Philippines, will be holding a multi-sectoral vTHD entitled, “Transparency and Accountability: Regaining Public Trust through Democratic Governance,” on 30 June 2020, Tuesday, from 9:00 am – 11:00 am.
Declaring Sovereignty 122 years After Our Independence
Today marks our 122nd year of independence from a foreign colonizer and oppressor. It is the hope of Democracy Watch Philippines that on this day we remind ourselves not to let history repeat itself.