MANILA -- There is a “narrow window" of hope that the controversial Freedom of Information bill can still be passed, according to principal author Quezon Rep. Lorenzo "Erin" Tañada.
The House of Representatives is set to conduct business again on May 31 for the canvassing of election returns. Tañada cited an instance in 2001 when the House reconvened after the election and managed to pass a major law - the Electricity Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA).
Tañada urged advocates of the bill to intensify their campaign to make sure that the Representatives report back for work so that House could muster a quorum in order to pass the bill.
The Freedom of Information bill only needs ratification of the House before being transmitted to Malacañang. The Senate ratified the bill last week.
“Our people must own the issue and make their so-called 'representatives' in Congress shape up and deliver one of their fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution - their right to be informed on matter of public concern," Tañada said.
Some audience in the gallery identified as member of the Transparency and Accountability Network shouted "Ratify FOI!" after the roll call showed lack of quorum Wednesday. They were escorted out the plenary hall. (Angela Casauay/Sunnex)