The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) said it was targeting that all 1,600 local government units (LGUs) will have their electronic Business One-Stop Shop (e-BOSS) before President Duterte's term expires on June 30 next year.
ARTA Director-General Jeremiah Belgica made the statement after only 580 LGUs were able to meet the June 17 deadline for setting up the e-BOSS.
Despite the low compliance rate, Belgica said achieving the target was still possible until June 2022.
"It's very possible that, at the end of the term of our President, we will have all our LGUs onboard," he said.
"I could safely say based on what we are seeing, all LGUs are willing (to automate) as long as you will help them," he added.
The e-BOSS aims to streamline and automate processes in LGUs such as:
- Accepting electronic submission of application
- Issuing electronic tax bill or order of payment
- Accepting online payment
- Releasing of the electronic version of permits, licenses, and clearances
- Providing gateway facility linked to courier service where applicant prefers hard copy of the documents.
According to ARTA, LGUs were free to use the Integrated Business Permits and Licensing System (IBPLS) software of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to set up the e-BOSS.
The Ease of Doing Business Act mandates all LGUs to establish e-BOSS on or before June 17, 2021.
Meanwhile, ARTA has directed all LGUs to submit compliance reports by July 14, 2021. According to Belgica, LGUs that were not able to comply may be investigated.
"You better make sure that you have valid reasons. Otherwise, you will be investigated and cases may be filed against you," Belgica said.
Belgica said there was a need to streamline and automate government transactions to allow the public to make safe transactions with the government amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.