Public assured FOI has Belmonte’s, Evardone’s support

This refers to the letter accusing me and Speaker Feliciano “Sonny” Belmonte Jr. (SB) of trying to “kill” the Freedom of Information  or FOI bill (Inquirer, 12/3/12).

In fairness to Speaker Belmonte, his instructions is to facilitate the smooth passage of the bill taking into considerations all the contentious issues. I and Speaker Belmonte remain steadfast in our commitment to uphold the principles, spirit and intent of the FOI in ensuring transparency and accountability in government and in empowering informed citizens to help shape policies and programs to promote public interest.

I hope this will clarify the issue on the FOI.

—BEN P. EVARDONE

representative, lone district,

Eastern Samar,

chair, House Committee on

Public Information,

[email protected]