The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and the Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enhance the business environment in local government units (LGUs) through formulating policies on ease of doing business and good governance.
The MOU, signed last Nov. 25 in Quezon City, aims to facilitate the formulation of effective policies that support the ease of doing business and promote good governance across the country.
During the ceremony, ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez emphasized the implementation of ARTA initiatives among local government units, such as the Electronic Business One Stop Shop (eBOSS).
He stressed that combating red tape and corruption relies on developing streamlined government processes and digitalizing them, given his belief that the economy is primarily a local affair.
“We may have formulated the best policies and directions, but their effectiveness hinges on implementation by our mayors. With your guidance toward good governance, this country is poised for significant progress. By the end of this administration's term, we anticipate substantial development and the happiness of our citizens,” Perez said.
M4GG constitutes a network of Philippine mayors dedicated to upholding the principles of good governance.
Launched in August 2023, the initiative saw over 150 mayors commit to fostering transparency, accountability, participation, and adherence to the rule of law within their respective jurisdictions.
Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to streamline and digitalize government processes, ARTA said it remains committed to sharing best practices, addressing common challenges, and advocating policies that bolster good governance through proper consultation, transparency and accountability at the local level.
It also noted that this initiative marks a significant stride toward enhancing democracy and improving the lives of Filipinos.
For her part, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon stressed the significance for local chief executives to lead organizations focused on development rather than mere politics. This approach centers on policy development as a cornerstone for local government organizations.
“The government’s campaign on ease of doing business is a strategic move aimed at improving services, increasing investments, and furthering economic development. I commend all the mayors who are today taking the lead for these paramount partnerships,” De Leon stated.
Meanwhile, Mayor Krisel Lagman-Luistro of Tabaco City, Albay, a member of M4GG, emphasized the essential roles of three key entities in good governance.
The three entities include the government, creating an enabling environment; the business sector, serving as the economic engine; and the civil society, the collective sphere of voluntary organizations bridging government and the private sector.
“We cannot just talk about the Government as an actor, we have to partner with civil society, we also have to partner with the business sector, that is why we are here this evening,” Lagman-Luistro concluded.