Rep Ron Salo files bill to livestream Sangguniang Bayan sessions

KABAYAN Partylist Rep. Ron Salo filed House Bill No. 11294 on Thursday to mandate the livestreaming of Sangguniang Bayan sessions, aiming to enhance transparency and public access in local governance.

The bill seeks to amend sections of Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991 to require city and municipal councils to livestream all regular and special sessions on official social media pages and archive recordings for public access.

Salo highlighted that digital technology offers opportunities for greater citizen engagement, citing examples such as the House of Representatives, Senate, Laoag City Council, and a study in Isabela City.

The proposed amendments would insert provisions for livestreaming into Sections 50 and 52 of RA No. 7160, with new Section 52.b specifying platforms to be used by local government units (LGUs) and allowing the public to request copies of recorded sessions.

Salo emphasized that this initiative modernizes governance, combats misinformation, and fosters an informed citizenry, setting a higher standard for public service in the Philippines.