Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin emphasized the importance of digitalization in streamlining government processes and combating corruption. This statement comes in light of the Philippines’ ranking of 115th in Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, showing a slight improvement from its previous ranking of 116th.
Bersamin acknowledged this result as both a challenge to strive for better and a reason to be hopeful that the country is moving in the right direction. He emphasized the need to translate the President’s call for action into tangible results, showcasing the government’s commitment to earning the people’s trust through deeds rather than mere words. To achieve this, earnest efforts are already underway to implement the digital transformation mandate of the administration, aiming to streamline institutional processes and reduce opportunities for graft and corruption.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been a strong advocate for the complete implementation of the government’s digitalization program. In his second State of the Nation Address in July last year, he highlighted the significant improvements in efficiency brought about by digitalization in various processes, such as business registration, issuance of permits and licenses, loan applications, and revenue collections.
In line with this transformative policy direction, all government offices are urged to expedite the digitalization of their vital services. The urgency of this call cannot be overstated. Digitalization is not only necessary; it is needed today. By fully embracing digitalization, the government can provide better services to the people through both its vital frontline services and its back-end functions.
According to Transparency International, the Philippines received a score of 34 out of 100 in their assessment, indicating a slight increase from the previous year’s score of 33. This score is based on perceived levels of public sector corruption, with 0 representing “highly corrupt” and 100 indicating a “very clean” system. Transparency International gathers data from multiple sources, including 13 different corruption surveys and assessments, to determine each country’s score.
The government’s commitment to digitalization reflects its determination to address corruption and improve governance. By leveraging technology to streamline processes, the Philippines aims to create a more transparent and efficient system that leaves less room for corruption to thrive. Digitalization has the potential to enhance accountability, reduce bureaucracy, and facilitate greater access to public services.
While the Philippines still has progress to make in its fight against corruption, the government’s emphasis on digitalization is a positive step forward. By embracing this transformation and harnessing the power of technology, the country can build a more transparent, accountable, and efficient government. As digitalization continues to evolve, it is crucial for the Philippines to adapt and leverage emerging technologies to further strengthen its anti-corruption efforts.
In conclusion, digitalization plays a crucial role in streamlining government processes and combating corruption. The Philippines’ commitment to digital transformation signals a determination to improve governance and earn the people’s trust. By embracing technology and implementing digital solutions, the country can create a more transparent, efficient, and accountable government for the benefit of its citizens.
Source: The Manila Times