It can take many forms, such as an academic poster, presentation to a

symposium/conference, website article, book chapter, academic journal article, or

even an unguarded conversation in a car park1.

This order defines “information” as any records, documents, papers, reports, letters,
contracts, minutes and transcripts of official meetings, maps, books, photographs,
data, research materials, films, sound and video recording, magnetic or other tapes,
electronic data, computer stored data, any other like or similar data or materials
recorded, stored or archived in whatever format, whether offline or online, which are
made, received, or kept in or under the control and custody of any government office
pursuant to law, executive order, and rules and regulations or in connection with the
performance or transaction of official business by any government office2.

These laws are designed to empower citizens, journalists, researchers, and advocacy
groups with the information they need to make informed decisions, hold institutions
accountable, and participate effectively in democratic processes 1. Public disclosure
laws serve several important purposes:

Executive Order No. 2, s. 2016 is a legal document that aims to promote transparency
and accountability in the public service of the Philippines. It operationalizes the
people’s constitutional right to information and the state policies to full public
disclosure and transparency in the public service.

In simpler terms, this order requires the government to disclose information to the
public, subject to reasonable conditions prescribed by law. It also guarantees the right
of the people to information on matters of public concern. This order recognizes the
fundamental role of free and open exchange of information in a democracy, meant to
enhance transparency and accountability in government official acts, transactions, or
decisions

• Government Transparency: Public disclosure laws require governments and

public institutions to share information about their actions, decisions, and
expenditures. This transparency helps prevent corruption, misuse of funds, and
abuse of power.
• Accountability: By making information accessible to the public, public
officials and institutions are held accountable for their actions. Citizens can
monitor how resources are used, track progress, and assess the performance of
government agencies.
• Informed Decision-Making: Access to information allows citizens to make
well-informed decisions about issues that affect their lives. This is especially
 important in a democratic society where voters need accurate information to
make choices during elections or when participating in public debates.
• Investigative Journalism: Public disclosure laws enable journalists to
investigate and report on issues of public interest. This investigative reporting
plays a crucial role in exposing corruption, fraud, and other misconduct.
• Protection of Civil Liberties: Disclosure of information related to civil
liberties, such as human rights abuses, helps protect the rights and freedoms of
individuals. It allows advocacy groups to address violations and seek justice.

Public disclosure laws are crucial in promoting transparency and accountability in government. These
laws require the government to disclose information to the public, which helps to ensure that the
government is acting in the best interests of the people it serves. Public disclosure laws also help to
prevent corruption and other forms of misconduct by government officials.

Transparency and accountability are essential components of good governance. They help to build public
trust and confidence in government institutions and promote the rule of law. By promoting transparency
and accountability, public disclosure laws help to ensure that government officials are held accountable
for their actions and that the public has access to the information it needs to make informed decisions
about government policies and programs.