Poe files bill to institutionalize online gov't services

Senator Grace Poe has filed a measure seeking to institutionalize e-governance to allow Filipinos to avail of government services without having to physically come and wait in line inside various agencies.

Poe filed Senate Bill 1683 or the proposed E-Government Act of 2020 in a bid to enable the public to file and receive personal claims or loans as well as business-related requirements with ease through an interconnected online government system.

“It is only proper to be assured of the transparency and efficiency of a government that is just a click away from its citizens,” she said.

Under the measure, the "interoperability" or the capacity of government agencies to operate along with each other online and in a standardized manner will be implemented.

“The government should be able to address queries and concerns interactively through capable online staff supporting an extensive, up-to-date list of FAQs (frequently asked questions and answers),” Poe said.

The bill mandates the integration of all business registration-related transactions with various government agencies, as well as real-time service of the procurement process online involving bidding and contract agreements.

At the same time, the bill requires all government agencies to reconcile their payment system in one database, and establishes vital measures to protect the public from data breaches, such as insulating computer networks against unauthorized usage and encryption of personal data.

In order to carry out the provisions of the measure, Poe underscored the need to improve the country's connectivity infrastructure.

“Now is the best time to ramp up initiatives to give Filipinos fast and reliable internet connection to truly enable them to shift to online transactions with national agencies and local government units,” she said.

“The call for digital transformation in delivering service is more urgent now in the time of pandemic – when mobility is hampered, physical interactions are minimized, and having access to government services in the safety of our homes is more crucial than ever," she added.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology is mandated to come up with a timely and efficient e-government master plan that should be updated as the need arises.

“Our people expect the government now more than ever to look after them with concern and compassion, having exhausted all their resources and strength trying to cope with this pandemic,” Poe said. —Erwin S. Colcol/KG, GMA News