The Philippines’ Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) are aiming to upgrade its digital infrastructure by improving its e-governance and e-services, streamline and speed up government process to cater to the local business sector, in a bid to boost its global ranking in the ease of doing business in 2021.
The programs piloted by the DICT include the first phase of Central Business Portal (CBP), launched in January 2020, which streamlines business registration processes and allows business applicants to access a single site to apply for a Certificate of Registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). It also awarded secondary licenses under the Food and Drug Administration’s license to operate (LTO) for pharmaceutical companies. Social Security System, Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-ibig) and PhilHealth employer numbers for registrants are also generated in the system.
The launch of a second and third phase is yet to be announced. The second phase will focus on renewal, amendment and changes while the third phase will cover other business-related transactions and the possible improvements to the mobility of the CBP through the development of a web or mobile application.
The ARTA, on the other hand, has implemented reforms in Quezon City which is an area that logs the highest number of business registrations. Some of the notable reforms include automation of issuances for business and construction permits and digitization of land titles.
(Sources: Manila Bulletin; Yahoo News)