The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and 13 national government agencies (NGAs) have signed an Inter-Agency Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to encourage the delivery of public services with greater efficiency and interoperability of government systems and applications.
With the signing of the MoU, the DICT will develop new apps and digital systems, as well as consult with and train individuals from its partner agencies. The public can expect a more efficient and transparent delivery of services because of the integration and streamlining of government processes using these new applications and systems.
Secretary Ivan John E. Uy praised the work of all departments participating and emphasised e-governance as a crucial step towards national digitalisation. He also stated that they intend to formalise their united stance to streamline government services and eliminate the numerous inefficiencies that citizens have previously experienced.
The agency wishes to restore digital involvement in the public sector to provide public service. As a result, they are converting government services into government as a service.
ARTA According to Undersecretary Gerald G. Divinagracia, the MoU will strengthen their relationship and synchronise ongoing projects, particularly in digitalising government. They want government services to be simple, quick, and accessible to businesses and the public. It is past time for the government to leverage technological advancements to improve the way it delivers services both internally and externally through value-driven digitisation.
Similarly, BTr Deputy Treasurer Atty. Gisela F. Lood urged government entities to fully utilise digital payment methods to increase government collection and distribution efficiency. The Treasury is looking forward to working with the DICT on digital payments that other government agencies can use to realise the efficiency and social benefits that innovative financial technology brings.
According to BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr, the digital transformation path will be a different story without the DICT’s cooperation; thus, they will use this MOU to achieve wider tax-based and greater tax revenues in the coming years.
NPO Director Carlos A. Bathan also reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to ensuring the integration and interconnectedness of each system. He went on to say that they will prepare for the future digitalisation of government accountable forms and other information resources, while also ensuring the validity, accuracy, and transparency of the issued receipts.
In the Philippines, e-governance is extremely important since it plays a critical role in modernising public administration and improving citizen-government interactions. E-governance increases the efficiency, accessibility, and transparency of government services by leveraging digital technology and platforms.
It speeds up decision-making and service delivery by streamlining administrative processes and reducing bureaucracy. E-governance empowers citizens by making information more accessible, encouraging engagement, and assuring accountability.
It improves data management and security, promotes interoperability among government systems, and attracts investment by fostering a business-friendly environment. Overall, e-governance is critical in the Philippines for establishing a modern, efficient, and inclusive government that efficiently fulfils the requirements of its residents in the digital age.
With the MoU in place, the following governmental organisations and DICT can now officially collaborate:
- Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
- Department of Transportation (DOTr)
- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
- Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA)
- Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
- Bureau of the Treasury (BTr)
- Home Development Mutual Fund (PAG-IBIG)
- National Printing Office (NPO)
- Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC)
- Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)
- Philippine Commission on Women (PCW)
- Credit Information Corporation (CIC)
- National Commission for Senior Citizens (NCSC)
