Governor Tamayo champions open governance at 2025 OGP Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting

South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. took center stage as one of the distinguished speakers at the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting, held Thursday, February 6, 2025 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

The high-level event gathered government officials, civil society leaders, and policymakers from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss and advance transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.

Gov. Tamayo emphasized the importance of open governance in empowering local communities and ensuring inclusive and participatory decision-making. He also shared South Cotabato’s best practices as an OGP Local Pioneer, highlighting initiatives that promote good governance, citizen engagement, and government accountability.

"It was a privilege to engage in insightful discussions alongside esteemed leaders, including Incoming Global Civil Society Co-Chair of the OGP Steering Committee Stephanie Muchai, Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines Agus Widjojo, Secretary of Budget and Management Amenah Pangandaman, Secretary of Budget and Management Eka Gigauri, and Publish What You Pay Philippines President Cielo Magno,” said Gov. Tamayo.

The discussions centered on how open government initiatives can drive meaningful and lasting change in governance across the region.

"As the Governor of South Cotabato and an OGP Local Pioneer, I remain committed to fostering a participatory government that strengthens and uplifts every South Cotabateño. Let’s continue working together to build a more transparent, inclusive, and accountable government for all,” he added.

Gov. Tamayo’s participation in the OGP Regional Meeting reaffirms South Cotabato’s role as a leader in open governance and its continued dedication to innovative and citizen-driven governance reforms.