Ryan Chua
ABS-CBNNews.com
September 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – People will soon be able to watch online Senate hearings and privilege speeches by lawmakers.

The legislators approved a proposal on Wednesday to broadcast the lawmaking body’s activities online, Senator Francis “Kiko” Panglinan said.

The Senate adopted Resolution No 53 to livestream on its website selected proceedings in the plenary, as well as hearings and meetings of committees.

Pangilinan is the measure’s principal author.

“We welcome this development and this will be a major step towards accountability and transparency in government, both of which the Aquino administration espouses,” he said in a statement.

A feasibility study and pilot testing will be conducted initially within the Philippine Senate website, according to Pangilinan.

He said the test will ensure the program’s cost-effectiveness.

“Livestreaming will enable our countrymen to participate in governance and be informed of how their elected officials do their duty to country and fellowmen,” he said.

“Information technology also brings overseas Filipino workers closer to their countrymen as they can easily access the proceedings wherever internet is available,” he added.

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