Makati, Taguig, cited for use of IT in gov't services

MANILA, Philippines - The cities of Taguig and Makati joined eight other Philippine cities that were recognized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for their efficient use of information technology in the delivery of services.

In receiving the “2014 E-readiness Leadership Award” last June 18, Taguig and Makati joined the cities of Cagayan de Oro City, Cebu, Mandaluyong, San Fernando, Balanga, Angeles, Batangas City and Valenzuela which were recognized for adapting information technology in local governance or “e-readiness.”

E-readiness reflects how local governments are inclined to adapt e-Government. E-governments allow for a competitive edge in the global market place and creates an investment environment that can help drive local and foreign investors.

“Our efforts to adapt technology in our changing times have paid off. Technology is an effective tool in our campaign for faster and more efficient delivery of services,” said Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano.

Cayetano added that the award shows just how the city is exerting effort on revenue and tax collections, as well as on the promotion of transparency in the local government improved with the use of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

The awarded cities were chosen through the E-readiness Assessment Survey conducted by the DILG, DOST and the DTI.

In total, 143 cities were assessed for their (1) ICT capability, (2) technology environment and (3) web presence maturity. Other sub-indicators are presence of an ICT development plan, internet connectivity, and the presence of an ICT/MIS unit.

“We are in fast-paced and changing society and we, in the local government, want to adapt to that. The main concern here is how we can further the services, and with the system and technologies provided, I think that in Taguig, it is possible,” Cayetano said.

Meanwhile, Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay thanked the national government agencies for the recognition, which he said “gave added impetus to the city’s thrust towards smarter governance.”

“We are grateful for this award, which recognizes our unrelenting efforts to optimize the advantages offered by modern technology to shore up Makati’s competitive advantage and achieve sustainable and inclusive progress,” Binay said.

Binay added that Makati this year has set its sights on achieving a “Smarter Makati”, giving priority to ICT-driven programs and policies aimed to improve mobility, increase connectivity, and build a safe, secure and livable environment. 

Binay also cited trailblazing policies that reflect the city’s e-readiness, including the country’s first risk-sensitive Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Land Use Plan, and most recently, the new Makati Billboard and Signage Ordinance that the Metro Manila Council has agreed to adopt.

The city government has been continuously investing in the computerization of its operations, including business permits and licensing, resolution and ordinance monitoring, and public information.