DILG directs public offices to display "citizen chapter"

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Interior and Local Government-7 has directed all local government units in Central Visayas to display a copy of the “citizen’s chapter” in its various offices so the public will have an idea on how to go about their transactions with the government.

The “citizen’s chapter” is stipulated in Republic Act 9485 or “the act to improve efficiency in the delivery of government service to the public by reducing bureaucratic red tape, preventing graft and corruption and providing penalties.” 

The “citizen’s chapter” covers the standard operation procedure in businesses the public engages with the government, and is expected to be displayed as an information billboard at the main entrance of the office or in any conspicuous place therein.

It contains information on the proper process and fees that should be given when availing the services of the said office like getting business permits or a barangay clearance.

It also contains information on how to obtain a particular service, persons responsible for each step, and the maximum time to finish the process. It should also indicate what documents the public needs to present for the transaction, the fees involved, and even the procedure in filing a possible complaint.

The directive was made through a memorandum issued by DILG 7 Regional Director Pedro Noval Jr.

Noval said that by displaying the chapter, graft and corruption and red tape in government will be prevented because the public would already be aware on the proper procedure and amount to spare for the specific transaction. Noval said only a few offices are displaying the chapter. — AJ de la Torre/JMO   (THE FREEMAN)