STATEMENTS

November 15, 2006

Baguio People's Forum on Good Governance Unity Statement

“Where people become the decision makers in determining public policy and projects from the conceptualization stage, genuine participatory democratic governance starts to unfold.”
- Antonio Tujan Jr.
Convenor,
International Initiative on Corruption and Governance

We, the participants in the Baguio People’s Forum on Good Governance, uphold the principles of public accountability and transparency, equity and democratic participation as essential component of good governance. It is with these principles that good governance can thrive amid the systemic problems of graft and corruption in our country that result in unpatriotic and immoral political leadership.

In Baguio City, we have been witness to onerous contracts entered into by past administrations. Some of these were justified by questionable city ordinances that were passed without thorough scrutiny and participation of the citizenry.

The Uniwide, Jadewell, Bulk Water and land issues made us realize the value of active citizens’ participation in local policy-making. These experiences have instilled in us the need for vigilance both as citizens and consumers who oftentimes fall victims to onerous, anti-people policies and contracts.

It is a significant political development that we now actively engage in discussions regarding governance that used to be an exclusive arena of people in government. It is equally significant that we now consistently raise social issues in the wider context of good governance, in consonance with the democratic principle of having a government of the people, by the people and for the people.

The repeal of pay parking ordinance and the rescission of the Jadewell Pay Parking contract, the aborted entry of Uniwide in the city market, the stalled bidding of the bulk water system and the continued expose’ of land scams are reflective of the growing people’s unity against irresponsible actions emanating from City Hall. These victorious people’s struggles also highlight the ill-effects of privatization as seen in the exploitative practices of some private corporations, higher rates of utilities and services, monopoly of big capitalists, graft and corruption and poor delivery of basic social services. The government’s program of privatization needs to be reexamined as this has resulted in heavier financial burden for an already impoverished people.

These victorious Baguio people’s struggles will never end without the people asserting their right to good governance. Unless we raise these experiences to a continuing demand for genuine public service, our efforts will always be reactive especially when we default or when we are denied participation in policy-making.

Come elections 2007, let us defend our integrity as courageous citizens of our beloved city by denying unscrupulous politicians the privilege of representing us when in fact they do us a disservice once they are in office.

Beyond elections, let us uphold the principles of people’s governance by exercising our rights as active participants in decision-making that determines public policy, programs and projects.

In a resounding and united voice we declare:

Enough of graft and corruption!

Fight for good governance through genuine people’s participation!

Mission Center, Church of the Resurrection,
Magsaysay Avenue, Baguio City