Bill institutionalizing transition to e-governance approved by House committee

A measure seeking to institutionalize the government’s transition to e-governance is one step closer to being passed into law, after hurdling the House Committee on Appropriations.

The measure aims to boost the utilization of information and communication technology in transforming government processes, operations, and service delivery.

This will cover all executive, legislative, and judicial offices, including local government units, state universities and colleges, government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs), and other units that provide business and non-business related transactions.

It also seeks to establish the Philippine Infostructure Management Corporation (PIMC) which will focus on the delivery of government services through the interoperability and maximization of resources.

“With the establishment of the Philippine Infostructure Management Corporation, we can ensure that our citizens will have access to efficient, reliable, and responsive government services,” Committee on Appropriations chair and Ako Bicol party-list Representative Elizaldy Co said Sunday in a statement.

Following the approval at the committee level, the measure will now proceed to the plenary for further deliberation and approval.

“The passage of the bill is seen as a critical step toward the country’s digital transformation, enabling the government to provide fast, transparent, and efficient services to the public,” Co said.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in October said the country’s system should be digitalized to compete with other countries, with the enhancement of digital infrastructure among the top priorities. —Jon Viktor Cabuenas/KG, GMA Integrated News