FOI Philippines Hails SLSU as FOI Champion First Runner-Up

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) has been named the Freedom of Information (FOI) Champion First Runner-up during the FOI Awards 2025, held on November 28 at The Bellevue Manila in Filinvest City, Muntinlupa, underscoring the university’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and quality public service through its Public Affairs and Strategic Communications (PASCOM) Office.

The FOI Champion Award, conferred by FOI Philippines under the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) of Malacañang,recognizes government agencies that demonstrate exemplary implementation of FOI principles, including innovative information management, proactive service, and strong commitment to openness. For SLSU, the award was facilitated through PASCOM, which houses the university’s FOI unit. This recognition also confirms the university’s compliance with FOI guidelines, a critical component of the Performance-based Bonus (PBB) Scorecard.

The selection process was rigorous. A Screening Committee composed of representatives from the Office of the Executive Secretary, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), two civil society organizations, and an FOI partner agency evaluated nominees through document reviews and interviews before final deliberation.

SLSU has a notable history of FOI recognition. The university previously placed also as 1st runner-up for the FOI Champion Award in 2021 and received the Rising Star Award in 2024. “We are overjoyed and deeply humbled to see SLSU honored on the national stage,” said Dr. Eda J. Opina, PASCOM Director. “Being recognized as an FOI Champion First Runner-up is more than an award. It reminds us of the responsibility we carry and the impact we can make. This honor strengthens our commitment to champion transparency, accountability, and good governance.”

Rey G. Comabig, SLSU FOI Head, who received the award expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort behind the recognition. “I am deeply thankful to the management, our records officers, FOI focal persons across campuses, and office clerks whose dedication made this possible. This award is proof of what we can achieve together and motivates us to continue advocating for a transparent and informed society,” he said.

Through this award, SLSU joins the ranks of government institutions recognized for upholding the principles of openness and integrity in public service, setting an example for other universities nationwide.