Subic Bay Freeport — The 2025 Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards cited the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) as champion in the Government-Owned and -Controlled Corporation (GOCC) category during the ceremony held at The Bellevue Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, on 28 November.
The agency topped the category, followed by the Philippine Guarantee Corporation (PGC) as 1st Runner-Up and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) as 2nd Runner-Up.
The award was received by SBMA Office Services Department (OSD) OIC-Manager and FOI Receiving Officer (FRO) Jaime H. Menor Jr., with staff FRO Angelo M. Mañalac and FRO Randy D. Canlas, on behalf of SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño.
Aliño said the recognition marks a strong year for transparency and public accountability among government institutions.
He lauded the honor, noting that it affirms the agency’s commitment to openness, proactive information sharing, and active public engagement, and emphasized that transparency remains a cornerstone of effective and democratic governance.
Themed “KALIKASAN: Knowledge Access for Local and International Key Actions on Sustainability, Accountability, and Nature,” the awards ceremony underscored the role of transparent public information in promoting environmental stewardship, good governance, and sustainable development.
Aside from the agency's award, Canlas was also recognized as one of the Best FOI Receiving Officers in the Philippines, distinguishing himself among frontliners nationwide who ensure efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly access to public information.
The FOI Awards is an annual initiative recognizing outstanding government agencies and individuals who champion transparency and uphold the public’s right to information under the FOI Program.