DBM, DICT ink interoperability pact
The MOU, signed during the Inter-Government Agency Memorandum of Understanding Signing for E-Governance on 14 June 2023, covers all collaborative efforts between the DBM and the DICT to ensure interoperability of applications and systems of the agencies. It is in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive for government agencies to undergo digital transformation that will ensure faster delivery of government services, enhance accountability, and guarantee transparency.
Undersecretary for Information and Communications Technology and Chief Information Office (CIO) Maria Francesca M. Del Rosario signed the MOU on behalf of DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman. Meanwhile, Secretary Ivan John Uy signed for the DICT.
The DBM Secretary has consistently emphasized that "...through digital transformation, the government will be able to build reliable data systems that are responsive to the people's needs which includes targeted social protection and more efficient employment opportunity linking systems."
According to Usec Del Rosario, "We [DBM] really wanted to help digitalize our government offices because, even if we have these applications, if the government offices, the LGUs don’t have connectivity, useless po 'yung ginagawa natin. So it’s really a collaborative effort across all agencies," Usec Del Rosario said.
The DBM CIO then assured, "We’re very much supportive of this initiative of E-gov and we’re looking forward for more policy work in terms of integration of these applications--not just on the tech but on the policy."
DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy, in his Welcome Remarks, said, "The second week of ICT Month celebrates digital governance. And, as we leverage the power of ICT, transforming the government into an agile and efficient bureaucracy by encouraging government agencies and instrumentalities to adopt digital tools and technology, we hope to make great strides in enhancing public service delivery, promoting transparency, and positive accountability."
In addition, DICT Undersecretary for e-Government David L. Almirol, Jr. thanked the DBM for the support.
"On DBM, thank you for being supportive to us on e-governance and in making ISSP a prerequisite before release of funds, and budget," Usec Almirol Jr. said.
Under the MOU, the DBM will guide the DICT on its process to ensure interoperability; provide relevant information and data, subject to the provision on confidentiality and other relevant laws, rules and regulations; and comply with existing and relevant laws on procurement, budget and accounting processes, and other existing rules and regulations, if applicable, in fulfilling their commitments under this MOU.
Agencies which also signed their respective MOUs with the DICT included the Department of Health, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, Department of Agriculture, and the Development Academy of the Philippines. (DBM/PIA Caraga)
