Senator Kiko pushes for live streaming of Senate proceedings

Senator Francis “Kiko" Pangilinan filed Resolution 53, calling for the "live streaming" or broadcasting live over the Internet of Senate proceedings. Pangilinan said the bill, if passed, will provide accurate information in real time to the public. “Through this bill, we will have initiated a greater informed participation among the members of the senate and the general public. We will bring the senate closer to the people. This will provide the public access to the inner workings of the legislative branch without editing or commentary, so that nothing will be misinterpreted, as they will be getting accurate information in real time," he said. Pangilinan said 10 million Filipinos overseas will also benefit from this proposal. “Live streaming will also serve to promote greater transparency in that everything we say or do on the senate floor will be known in real time anywhere in the world where the internet is available." The senator added that the live streaming of senate proceedings— including hearings and meetings of the senate committees— will promote transparency and accountability of legislators. “The 1987 Constitution recognizes the right of the people to public information on matters of public concern. By recording and live streaming the proceedings of the senate, this may be used to validate the transcripts of proceedings being provided to the public," he said. “Engaging public participation in governance can propel our nation to where we should be. It’s time to think big and to have grand vision. Let us use this grand opportunity to build on the things we have gained in these first one hundred days of the Aquino administration," he added. –VVP, GMANews.TV