Go lauds PBBM directive to empower LGUs to adapt e-gov’t systems ​

 
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Sunday, May 28, commended President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. for tasking the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to enable local government units (LGUs) to adapt to e-government systems as part of efforts to modernize government services. 
 
"The directive issued by President Marcos reflects his commitment to improving public service delivery and advancing the nation's digital landscape,” Go said in a statement. 
 
“By leveraging technology and implementing e-governance, we can enhance government efficiency, promote transparency, and empower citizens with easier access to services,“ the senator stressed.
 
Go is referring to the sectoral meeting of the President with DICT officials last Wednesday, May 24, where he issued a directive to Secretary Ivan Uy and reminded them to ensure regular upgrades within the system.
 
In light of this development, the lawmaker renewed his push for the passage of Senate Bill No. 194 which promotes the integration of digital solutions in government operations. 
 
During the Senate Committee on Science and Technology’s hearing last Monday, May 22, Go, as one of the authors of the measure,  highlighted the potential benefits of e-governance, particularly its potential to expedite processing times for permits and licenses, simplified online transactions, improved data security, and enhanced accessibility. 
 
“Bureaucratic inefficiency has been one of the most persisting problems in government service for the longest time. People spend so much money, time, and energy just to get a simple document, submit an application for a permit, or simply access public information,” Go pointed out.
 
“Napakahaba po ng proseso, maubos ang oras mo, hindi lang isang oras, isang linggo, o isang buwan (The process is very long, your time will be consumed, not just for an hour, but a week, or a month),” he lamented.
 
“Government should always be responsive to the demands of changing times. It is for this reason that I filed the proposed E-Governance Act,” Go said of Senate Bill No. 194
 
The bill, he said, primarily mandates the government to establish an integrated and interconnected information and resource-sharing and communications network spanning the entirety of the national and local governments.
 
“Doing so would bring the government closer to the people, bridge the gap in the delivery of various services, and provide avenues for our people to bring their grievances and concerns to the government,” Go emphasized.