Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a more synchronised ICT system in ecozones, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is assisting the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in its digitisation efforts.
The MoU signed by DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy and PEZA Director General Tereso Panga, states that the DICT will examine PEZA’s existing applications and systems, as well as assist in the creation and improvement of PEZA’s ICT system.
The DICT will also thoroughly investigate prospective programmes and initiatives on which both agencies could engage, guaranteeing smooth integration of PEZA’s identified and current applications and systems with DICT’s digitalisation efforts.
Secretary Ivan stated that the signing of the e-Governance MoU between the two agencies will encourage the adoption of a unified operating system for all government transactions, resulting in faster, more efficient, and more convenient delivery of public services across the country.
“We at the DICT offer our assistance and enjoin every agency and public institution into adopting our e-governance solutions, which seek to elevate the efficiency of our processes and the quality of our services,” Secretary Ivan said.
He added that the signing of this MoU for e-Governance will unite the government by accomplishing not only interconnection but also interoperability of systems and applications. This MoU is the initial step towards realising the nation’s vision.
According to David Almirol Jr, Undersecretary of the DICT for e-Government, the MoU could radically alter the country’s e-Government infrastructure. He added that this is only the beginning and that you can rest assured that this will be accomplished in a brief time. He believes that this agreement will result in a dramatic improvement in the simplicity with which people can conduct business.
Similarly, PEZA Director General Panga reaffirmed the two agencies’ partnership as an additional step towards the nation’s digital transformation, adding that the partnership seeks to accelerate the government’s digitalisation to expedite the delivery of services to the public.
The agency is making a new breakthrough as it continuously improves data security, transparency, and government transactions to better serve ecozone developers, locators, and investors, thereby making the country more business-friendly and conducive to expansion.
In addition, a synchronised ICT system makes it easy for different government agencies and departments to join and work together. This speeds up and improves operations within ecozones by streamlining processes, getting rid of unnecessary steps, and lowering the number of governmental hurdles.
Also, it makes it easier and faster to start and run businesses in ecozones by creating a single platform for government activities. This makes it easier to do business, which brings in more investment and helps the economy grow.
The synchronised ICT system makes it easier for government agencies to help companies in a timely and effective way. This includes services connected to permits, licences, taxes, and other requirements set by the government. It cuts down on paperwork, human processes, and delays, which makes service delivery better and makes customers happier.
Likewise, a synchronised ICT system makes it possible to handle data in one place and improve security. This protects private business and government information from cyber threats and people who shouldn’t have access to it. It gives companies in ecozones more confidence, which brings in more investment and makes the business environment safer.
Further, it would be easier for government departments to work together and share information. This makes it easier to coordinate, share information, and make decisions. It makes it easier to come up with and adopt better policies, which leads to better governance and more help for businesses in ecozones.