KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The Province of South Cotabato has advanced to the next level of screening for the 2026 Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards, recognizing its continuing efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and public access to government information.
The province was shortlisted after successfully qualifying in the initial evaluation of its submission, bringing it closer to the final selection for the national awards. Provincial Information Officer Rudy S. Jimenea said the development affirms the Provincial Government’s commitment to making government information more accessible to the public and strengthening good governance through transparency and accountability.
The FOI Program is an important mechanism in promoting citizens’ right to access information on government policies, programs, projects, and transactions.
For South Cotabato, the recognition highlights the importance of institutionalizing transparency and open governance as part of effective public service.
The FOI Awards recognize the outstanding efforts of national government agencies, local government units, and other government institutions in advancing freedom of information and promoting transparency in governance.
The province’s advancement to the next level of screening underscores its continuing efforts to strengthen open government practices and ensure that citizens are better informed about the actions and services of their government.
