Information Technology for Good Governance
Francisco Magno and Ramonette Serafica
Introduction
Since the mid-1980s, strategic efforts have been exerted by many countries to build their telecommunication
and information infrastructures.1 The mobilization of information technology (IT) is deemed crucial in fostering
national competitiveness in the context of a rapidly changing global economy. Increasingly, strong IT capacity is
perceived to make a difference not only in the marketplace but also in the field of governance.
Governance deals with the structures and dynamics of rule making and collective action in society.
Processes of governance do not necessarily reside solely within the sphere of state action and authority. The
contemporary understanding of governance springs from the recognition that governments are limited in their
capacity. Such limitation should be considered in the design of public programs. The integration of participatory
elements in decision making is vital in undertaking effective public management.2
* Francisco Magno is Associate Professor of Political Science and Director of the Social Development Research Center, De La
Salle University, Manila. Ramonette Serafica is Associate Professor of Economics, De La Salle University, Manila. For
correspondence, please contact <magnof@csb.dlsu.edu.ph>. The authors acknowledge the support of the Asia
Foundation and the Yuchengco Center for East Asia in the preparation of this study. Research assistance was provided by
Lord Byron Abadeza, Jane Lynn Capacio, Kareff May Rafisura, and Cresmar Yparaguirre. Glenn Sipin reviewed an early
version of this paper.
Governance could be seen in broad terms as a system for steering and coordinating collective action.
However, the realm of public action transcends notions of public delivery and state-led changes.3 The state's role is
transformed from that of an almighty sovereign to one that is based on coordination and fusion of public and private
resources.
New modes of policy consultation are experimented to improve citizen engagement in the policy
1
For a survey of the policy approaches taken by various countries to develop their information industries, see
Dianne Northfield, The Information Policy Maze: Global Challenges - National Responses (Melbourne: RMIT
University Press, 1999).
2
See Milton Esman, “The Maturing of Development Administration,” Public Administration and Development, vol.
8, no. 2 (1988): 125-134.
3
Mark Turner and David Hulme, Governance, Administration and Development: Making the State Work (London:
Macmillan Press Ltd, 1997), p. 21.
Page 1 of 32
deliberation process. Information tools such as electronic web sites are utilized to allow various stakeholders to
present their perceptions on public issues.4
In view of the clamor for political innovations in society, it is important to gain a steady grasp of how new
information systems could raise the quality of governance in ways that would satisfy citizen demands. This study,
therefore, seeks to assess the role of IT in promoting good governance. It surveys the various efforts exerted by
national line agencies and local government units in the Philippines to integrate IT in the implementation of policy
and administrative reforms. The drivers and hurdles to such initiatives are likewise examined. Finally, the paper
identifies areas for extending analytical inquiry and policy action in the terrain of electronic governance.
The Role of IT in Good Governance
Advances in IT offer potentially beneficial effects on governance. For instance, the increased performance
and availability at reduced cost of microelectronics, fiber optics, voice and video compression, fast-packet switching
and high-density storage technology could be utilized to make public administration more efficient. Technology
convergence due to digitalization, wide band transmission, compression technologies, and standards development
lends support for the low cost provision of public services such as health care and education. The pursuit of
democratic governance could be fostered with a nation's access to a much greater diversity of communication
sources and network designs. This is facilitated by the unbundling of communication functions and services due to
the emergence of competing technologies, the dispersal of intelligence through diverse communication networks, the
demands of large users, and the institution of competitive markets. In developing countries like the Philippines, the
expansion of two-way interactive media can support local grassroots participation. Democratic politics could be
enhanced through the utilization of updated networking capabilities due to improvements in integration and
switching technologies such as routers, intelligent hubs and asynchronous transfer mode, together with advances in
wide band transmission technologies and software support applications. The increased mobility and portability
arising from distributed intelligence and innovations in wireless technologies such as satellite receivers, cellular
telephony, radio paging, private branch exchange equipment, and local area and wide area networks also provide a
rich environment for cultivating good governance.5
IT promotes good governance in three basic ways: (1) by increasing transparency, information, and
accountability; (2) by facilitating accurate decision-making and public participation; and (3) by enhancing the
efficient delivery of public goods and services. The citizen's right to gain access to public documents is supported
under the country's constitutional framework.
Promotion of this right is pursued through the government’s
computerization program and the availability of these documents through the Internet. Many government agencies
use IT facilities to tell the public about their accomplishments, achievements, programs, and plans. The availability of
4
Jon Pierre and B. Gu y Peters, Governance, Politics and the State (London: Macmillan Press Ltd., 2000), pp. 23-25.
Robin Mansell and Uta Wehn (etc.), Knowledge Societies: Information Technology for Sustainable Development
(Oxford and New York: Oxford University Press, 1998), pp. 96-97.
5
Page 2 of 32
information helps people, especially those who live in the provinces, to access the data that they need without going
to the nation's capital. Information about government operations is a basic requirement in fostering transparency in
governance. The use of IT could enable the government, as well as civil society, to inform the people of their rights
and privileges.
Government web sites allow the citizens to send their reactions and feedback on issues that affect them. For
example, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) web site provides entries where the consumers, exporters, and
business people are afforded the opportunity to ask questions, provide suggestions, and file complaints. Increased
transparency in the running of government cultivates a more informed citizenry. The drafting of the Implementing
Rules and Regulations of the Electronic Commerce Act was posted in the web and was able to accelerate the speed
for conducting public consultations since concerned stakeholders were able to express their opinions directly
through the net.6
Aside from the Internet, there are other means by which transparency and accountability is promoted
though the use of IT. Through computer kiosks, people gain access to information especially on contributions to
insurance and loan applications, similar to what is provided by the Social Security Service. The increased ability of
government agencies and citizens to interact provides a favorable setting where more accurate and appropriate
decisions can be made. The IT office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) evolved from
a data retrieval office to a body that provides decision options. An important thing to consider in this instance is the
ability of IT to connect the central offices to the local areas. This paves the way for the enhancement of local inputs
to decision-making.7
The amount of paper used by the government is greatly reduced by using updated information and data
base systems. As their documents and processes become digitized, the cost of administrative maintenance is
reduced. This freed more resources for use in the distribution of other valuable social goods. Transaction time with
the bureaucracy is shortened. Efficient service provision entail having the right services delivered to the right people,
and delivered fast when the people need it most.
National and Local Efforts in IT for Good Governance
The advent of computerization in the country started as early as 1969 with the creation of the National
Computer Center (NCC) in 1971 through EO 332. The NCC was charged with the task of establishing computerization
capacities in the government, which covered systems conceptualization, design and development, implementation,
and human resource development. It is also mandated to perform regulatory functions in the areas of IT training
certification and in the procurement of computers and peripherals by government agencies. Currently, the NCC is
6
Interview with Toby Monsod, Assistant Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry, October 27, 2000.
Interview with Yuljose Malicsi, Computer Programmer III, Decision Systems Support Office, Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, October 10, 2000.
7
Page 3 of 32
involved in setting standards, conducting policy reviews, and assisting government agencies in their IT development
activities.8
Today, the levels of IT adoption in the various government units can be categorized into four types. There
are those that (1) maintain their own web sites or are on-line, (2) those with local area networks (LAN) or wide area
networks (WAN), (3) those that are highly computerized, and (4) those with a mixture of manual and computerized
work. A number of government offices including local government units are already on-line with their own web sites
that offer various information services (see Annex 1). In 1999, there were 12 WANs installed in a number of agencies.
These include the DTI, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), National
Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Science and Technology
(DOST), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). On the other hand, some130 LANs were set
up in various government offices. Most of the national agencies have LANs, with the exception of the Department of
National Defense (DND) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). 9 As to the number of IT personnel, about 0.3% of an
estimated 1.2 million government employees may be considered as IT personnel.10 Table 1 shows the ratio of
personnel and micro-computers per national government agency.
8
National Information Technology Council, Government Information Systems Plan (Manila: NITC, 2000), pp. 1-37.
Ibid, pp. 21.
10
Ibid, p. 33.
9
Page 4 of 32
Table 1 : Manpower: Micro-Computer Ratio in National Government Agencies (1998)
Department
Number
Positions
Filled
Total No.
of Units
Ratio
Manpower
to Unit
Above the Average
Department of Agriculture
Department of Budget and Management
Department of Energy
Department of Finance
Department of Foreign Affairs
Department of Justice
Department of Science and Technology
Department of Social welfare and Development
Department of Tourism
Department of Trade and Industry
National Economic and Development Council
11,658
964
715
29,147
1,802
10,972
4,151
2,625
866
2,973
4,795
2,143
468
493
3,939
296
768
1,075
172
306
1,729
1,902
5
2
1.5
7
6
14
4
15
3
2
2.5
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
Below the Average
Department of Agrarian Reform
Department of Education Culture and Sports
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Department of Health
Department of Interior and Local Government
Department of Labor and Employment
Department of National Defense
Department of Public Works and Highways
Department of Transportation and Communications
8,209
452,932
19,783
26,424
25,075
16,704
111,003
18,250
13,023
348
583
831
524
734
844
315
631
578
24
777
24
50
34
20
352
29
22
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
:1
Note: Total Filled Positions and Total Units are those of Surveyed Agencies
Sources: Department of Budget
and Management, National
Computer Center
Departments and Government Agencies
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has established an internal system for monitoring the operations of
foreign-assisted projects. It is implemented in a World Bank-funded project in Mindanao. The software used is
undergoing revisions to take into account the results of the pilot testing. The system enables its personnel to easily
acquire information on the conditions and availability of farm-to market roads, micro-finance, and land rights issues.
This information can be made available to the public and could yield information that would enable the Department to
generate sound decisions and offer better services.11
An interesting feature of the DA is its National Information Network Kiosk (NIN). The NIN refers to the
information network that seeks to link the DA with various research institutions, international and local
organizations, other government agencies and ultimately, the local end users. It aims to provide easy access to
11
Unless otherwise specified, the data in this section are obtained from the interview with Mr. Gener Daluz, Chief of
IT-CAF, Department of Agriculture, Quezon City, 10 October 2000.
Page 5 of 32
information and marketing services related agriculture and fisheries. At the national level, the DA through a central
server will interconnect businesses and agencies under its umbrella. It can be accessed through a touch screen kiosk
leased by a private company. It is currently installed at the DA Central Office and serves as a demonstration unit that
showcase the activities of the Department under NIN, specifically in facilitating the access of farmers and
cooperatives to agricultural and fisheries information. The DA has made this unit on-line and existing data and
information from the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) can be downloaded through this kiosk.
In 2000, the Department plans to put up at least four information kiosks in selected sites. The types of
information to be made available in the kiosks will vary depending on the predominant crops and products in the area
where the kiosk is located. Basic information contained in each kiosk shall include price and market data, as well as
production and post-production technology packages. The department also maintains its own web page and offers
the latest information on agriculture. Aside from being on-line, the department is one of the few agencies with a
WAN system. This system connects the central office to the 15 regional field units, bureaus and attached agencies.
The personnel that operate the system come from the Information Technology Center for Agriculture and Fisheries
(IT-CAF) with training coming from the Agricultural Training Institute (AIT). Generally, all funds come from the
annual appropriations of the Department. However, the Department recently entered into an agreement with the
Philippine Chamb er of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) to develop the Electronic Import Permit and License Issuance
System with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) had been lauded for launching an Electronic
Procurement System (EPS). The Internet-based services to be provided under the system include the following: (1) a
public tender for procurement services, (2) a catalogue and virtual store for procurement services transactions with
government agencies, and a (3) suppliers registry to provide agencies a common list of accredited suppliers to
support invitation bids. The EPS simplifies the procurement of supplies by all government agencies. Government
agencies can locate and order products that have been tested and pre -qualified by the Procurement Service of the
DBM. Accreditation of suppliers could also be done through the Internet. Moreover, government agencies could
post bid notices and get responses from the accredited suppliers. The system streamlines and improves the
transactions of government agencies and their suppliers. The system allows greater efficiency in the use of personnel
resources and in the implementation of procurement standards, cost reduction measures, transparency guidelines,
and economic development plans.
The evolution of the Decision Support System Office (DSSO) of the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) reflects the changing role the office plays in the IT development of the DENR. It started as the
Electronic Data Processing Center in the 1970s and was renamed as the Management Information Systems Division
by virtue of Executive Order 192 issued by then President Corazon Aquino. The decision to rename it as the Decision
Support System Office carries with it added responsibility for the unit. Apart from the traditional role of generating
reports and serving as a “post office” and information-clearing house, the DSSO also carries the responsibility of
Page 6 of 32
providing decision systems options to DENR officials. When faced with a policy issue, the DSSO mobilizes the
available information, processes them and generates decision options.12
The DENR maintains a document tracking system that monitors incoming and outgoing documents. This
system allows a particular document to be delivered electronically from the sender to the receiver. The system
speeds up inter-Departmental transactions. The DENR also has a WAN that links all Provincial Environment and
Natural Resources Offices (PENROs), Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs) and the
Central Office. There is also a Telemetry that makes it possible to measure data from the field and recording it in the
Central Office. Even remote field locations could already be reached through this technology.
The Department likewise tracks down its financial transactions through the Financial Management
Information System. It links the following offices: Accounting, Budget, Personnel, Cashier and the COA. There is
also the Confiscation Database that monitors the volume of timber confiscated. The system is used by the Special
Action and Information Division of the Department but imposes an added burden on DSSO personnel since they
have to conduct fieldwork to verify the information reported. Information on timber confiscation reported by
different offices (e.g., CENRO and PENRO) sometimes display discrepancies. Other systems include the Sulu-Celebes
Database, which is still under development. This system features a “Rapid Ecological Resource Assessment” of the
Sulu-Celebes area and makes it possible for the user to retrieve scientific data about the area such as coliform
concentration, quantity of sea grasses, and location of fish sanctuaries. There is also a Personnel Information
System that contains employee records.
The Management Information System of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
includes the Synchronized Planning, Programming and Budgeting system that covers the preparation of preliminary
budget proposals. Since 1994, the system has been supporting the integrated documentation of the Department's
annual budget proposal to the DBM. It is the Department's most extensive IT system as it houses information
regarding proposed projects, performance targets, activities and budgets, and monitoring reports. 13
Another IT system is the Reporting Systems for Center and Institutions, which contain the information
needed by program management. It covers the operations of DSWD's centers and institutions. The Computer-based
Management and Information System covers the monitoring of all programs and projects that have been devolved to
local government units. Reports of DSWD projects can also be accessed by the higher officials of the Department,
and by some of its clients through the Concurrent Reporting System of programs and special projects. The
Department also has a Document Tracking System that enables the Secretary, Undersecretaries and Assistant
Secretaries to exchange documents electronically. However, the various divisions are not yet linked to the system.
The Computerized Personnel Information System allows for a speedy access of information pertaining to the
Department's personnel records. The DSWD also has a Day Care Center Database where information about the
12
Interview with Mr. Yuljose Malicsi, Computer Programmer III, Decision System Support Office, Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, October 10, 2000.
13
Management and Information Service, Computer-Based Management Manual of Operations, prepared by the
Information System Divisions, January 1997.
Page 7 of 32
location of day care centers nationwide is stored. Likewise, under the Departments' MIS is the Early Childhood
Development Project (ECDP) funded by the IMF and WB which monitors the implementation of the project in pilot
cities and municipalities. Despite the many IT systems installed in the DSWD, it has yet to finish the construction of
its web page and to move to windows applications since most of the systems mentioned are still running on the DOS
operating system (although they operate on a dual operating system). The DSWD is also developing a Communitybased Poverty Mapping System and a Request and Referral Information System. 14
Tasked to ensure the uplift the quality of civil servants in the country, including IT personnel, the Civil
Service Commission15 (CSC) has fully computerized it client-based application systems. Aside from the computerized
civil service examinations where the results can be released within the day, the commission also computerized its
Mamamayan Muna In Action campaign. The CSC established information kiosks in its Central Office that allow
clients to access the following:
e-Verification- answers all Eligibility Verification and related query
e-Docque- document tracking and query system
E-Case Resolve- compilation of cases that have already been resolved
e-Resolutions- CSC's must important resolutions
e-Exam Reg- allows for an electronic registration of civil service examinees
e-JOBSEEK- list of vacant positions in various government agencies The CSC is also already
linked with the Department of Labor and Employment
eQUAL Standard- list of government positions with their corresponding qualification
standards
ePlacement- allows the user to search for any job placement in the government
ePublication- posts the current CSC publication
e-Exam Schedule- posts all upcoming examination schedule
e-Accredited- list of all government accredited training institutions
There are also in-house applications, including the COCOS that tracks outgoing documents, and the DBAR,
a database of people that are barred from taking CSC exams. In addition, the commission utilizes a Career Executive
Service (CES) Information System. It is the integrated database of all CES Programs that include information on
selection, recruitment, and examination procedures. There is also the Statistics on the CES with information, updated
on a monthly basis, pertaining to the number of officials in CES positions and the number of vacant positions that
available. The CES Plantilla is constantly monitored and updated. CES occupancy reports are released quarterly or
whenever necessary. The information generated is used to guide the implementation of CES programs in policy
research, career placement, and performance management.
The task of encoding data into the system is
decentralized. The source of a particular document determines the type of information the public could access.16
The House of Representatives’ Bills and Information System monitors the status of bills and resolutions.
However, due to the limited capacity of the central system, the structural data is the only available information.
14
Interview with Godfrey Gollayan, Assistant Planning Officer, Department of Social Welfare and Development.
Interview with Ms. Zenaida Dinsay, Information Officer, Information Technology Division, Civil Service
Commission, October 11, 2000.
16
E-mail from Paul de la Cuadra, Head, Management Information Systems Unit, Career Executive Service Board,
October 12, 2000.
15
Page 8 of 32
Unless the storage capacity of the central system could be upgraded, the text of the bills and resolutions could not
be made available. Another limitation is that the structural data available in the system could not be downloaded.
Since it is not yet "web-enabled," public access to the data is possible only through filing a request with the
Information Technology Division of the House. Only ten offices are hooked up to the system. 17
The House and the Philippine Senate have web sites that are hosted by private servers. Similarly other
representatives maintain their own web sites and are connected also to the Internet through private Internet service
providers. Unfortunately, the web sites of the Philippine Senate and House of Representatives do not offer relevant
and up-to-date information. Presently, both web sites are hosted by a private server and some of the offered
information are either not available or under construction. For example, the House of Representatives' schedule of
plenary proceedings is not available. This link could have informed citizens and interested groups on the schedules
of sessions and meetings. On the other hand, the schedule of committee hearings was not regularly updated.18
The Philippine Senate currently does not have an official web site. The official homepage that it used to
have is under renovation. Now, the upper house is using a site hosted by a private server. Like the House of
Representatives web site, the Senate web site does not offer relevant information. For instance, although the first
page stated that there are online polls for people's opinions, upon clicking the link, the site provides a blank page.
Moreover, a list of the senate proceedings, meetings and floor deliberations is also unavailable on the web.
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) maintains a Land Information System with a database of
information relating to land distribution undertaken by the Department. The entry point of data is at the provincial
level. Data are upgraded monthly. The system allows the central office to monitor the progress of land distribution. It
also has a Legal System with information on all the cases handled by DAR's lawyers. This makes legal research more
manageable by classifying cases according to various categories. Payroll and personnel data are also stored in its
digital form. Three divisions under DAR, namely Systems Development, Operations and Monitoring, and Statistics
are spearheading the Department's IT-related initiatives. Management of Information System unit was organized in
1987 and was initially occupied by people from different offices. At present, the division has its own plantilla of IT
positions.19
The Commission on Audit (COA) aside from a heavy computerization has a GAARIS system that stores all
the memorandum, circulars, and laws, speeches, and audit reports of the commission. This system is also offered
through the Internet enabling researchers, and those who wish to see the audit reports of the COA easy access.
The Central Management Information Office (CMIO) of the Department of Finance20 (DOF) started
embarking on the heavy computerization of the agency in 1993. The DOF manages the FINLINK, a multi-agency
17
Interview with Ed Damian, Chief, Information Technology Development Division, House of Representatives,
Congress of the Philippines.
18
http://senate.hypermart.net/
19
Interview with Nestor Bayoneto, Chief-Systems Development Division, Department of Agrarian Reform, October
12, 2000.
20
E-mail from Aldrin L. Varilla, Information Technology Officer, Department of Finance, September 25, 2000 and
September 28, 2000.
Page 9 of 32
cooperation for a financial information management system that links the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of
Customs, Bureau of Treasury, Social Security Services, Government Service Insurance System, Bangko Sentral ng
Pilipinas, DBM, DTI, NEDA, NCC, Securities and Exchange Commission, and Land Transportation Office. The
Department’s Domestic Finance Group (DFG) is also a vital network system for their office automation and runs their
Revenue Management System, Internet Connectivity, and e-mail. The services provided through this system are to
be expanded through funds from US-AID that will support data warehousing. Its web site also offers vital
information about the country’s financial situation, links to other sites, and calls for bidding. Its Tax Credit Group is
in the process of automating its tax credit center to minimize graft and corruption through funds coming from
Australian Agency for International Development (Aus AID).
Under the Department of Finance (DOF), the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue
(BIR) has computerized most of its operations to become more efficient in revenue collection. The BOC through its
Automated Customs Operations System (ACOS) has reduced paper work and automated many processes including
payments. The following systems are offered through ACOS: an electronic manifest system, an electronic entry into
the Bureau’s computers, an assessment module that automatically computes the taxes and duties to be paid, and a
selectivity system that determines the risk profile of shipments. Its collection system covers all the processes from
payment to banks, monitoring of payments, and remittance to the National Treasury. The ACOS also provides an online release system that connects the BOC to the various terminals and harbor systems, an automated export
documentation system, a valuation system adopted from the World Trade Organization (WTO), and an Automated
Bond Management System (ABMS). 21
The BIR has embarked on a five-year Tax Computerization System project. Its Integrated Tax System has
been rolled out to 5 Revenue Data Centers, 7 Regional Offices, 41 Revenue District Offices, and its National Office.
Most of the processes of the bureau are already stored in computers and made available through networks
connecting the various offices. Payments can be made to select banks. Although the processes are not yet
automated, the data entry to computers by the personnel allows for the easy verification and recovery of vital
information about the taxpayers and their payments. The Bureau offers on line a TIN verification through its web
site, where other information are available, including BIR forms that can be downloaded and printed.
Considered as the most extensive and advanced user of IT among government agencies, the Social Security
System (SSS) started on the digital road in 1989 when its first LAN was created. Presently it has a WAN that covers
90 remote sites and integrates its Business Recovery System, Branch On-line Inquiry System, and SSS ID
(Identification) System. An SSS member presently has an ID card that allows the person to access information about
the status of her SSS contributions through a kiosk. It affords better security for a person inquiring on data
pertaining to contributions and loan records. Unfortunately, one has to go to the SSS offices to be able to use the
21
http://www.customs.gov.ph/boc/cpboc01.htm
Page 10 of 32
card and a kiosk, although the computerization of the SSS facilitated the quick releases and monitoring of pensions
and loans. 22
One of the lead agencies in the government’s IT development that provide technical and research services
to various agencies is the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). It also creates information systems and
database to better manage the country’s resources and provide readily available information for researches on
science and education, the Philippine trees, bamboo, rattan, metalworking, mango, medicinal plants, malaria, textiles,
etc. It also helps in the formulation of information networks in different areas and universities. Its WAN located in
Bicutan attempts to interconnect the entire area as a knowledge-based area conducive for research and development
in science and technology. The Department is aiming at providing all these services and information through a
procurement system for science and technology research. Under the DOST is the National Computer Center (NCC)
that provides technical know-how and training to government personnel. It is mandated to review and approve all
government projects relating to IT. It has a document tracking system, a web site that provides the pertinent policies
and links to agencies in government.
Another leader in the promotion of IT for governance is the DTI which heads the Information Technology
and Electronic Commerce Council (ITECC), the highest policy making body on IT in the country. The DTI has in
place a LAN and WAN that connects the various DTI offices. The DTI web site is complete in terms of trade and
industry-related policies, like the Electronic Commerce Act and the Investment Code. It also serves as a venue for
the Department to assist consumers, businesses, industries, exporters, and importers by highlighting their rights,
privileges, and responsibilities. Furthermore, it has an updated report of the Secretary on what is new in the trade
and industry sector. Aside from this, the Department also has a free Internet station in Makati. It is also in the
process of creating a ”one-stop-access” facility for all the information about the Department.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) web site offers extensive information and links
about the Philippines economic and development status, goals and programs, and recent pronouncements. Recent
development in the country and government can be downloaded from this site including all the policies and
strategies including those relate to IT. One can access in the web site the Medium Term Philippine Development
Plan, policy paper results, socio-economic data, laws relating to the economy, information about NEDA itself, recent
developments, and links to other sites.
Local Government Efforts
At the local government level, the approval of the Local Government Computerization Plan has provided the
necessary policy environment for the promotion of IT use in local governance. There have been success stories in
the use of IT for good governance, which mainly cover the computerization of registration processes and payroll
systems, access to local information, tax collection, and efficient monitoring of programs. So far, the 1997 NCC
survey showed that the 42 provinces and 32 cities that responded to the survey have at least one micro-computer.
22
National Information Technology Council, Government Information Systems Plan, pp. 23-24.
Page 11 of 32
Benguet has 83 computer systems while Saranggani has one. Among the respondents, 22 cities declared that they are
connected to the Internet.23
The DOF has recognized Muntinlupa City’s real property tax administration (RPTA) automation program as
a national model after the city has increased its collection efficiency by 85 percent. The heavy computerization and
automation of administrative processes relating to real property taxation enables a taxpayer to expend only about 10
minutes for payment purposes. Aside from the printing of assessment rolls that takes about two weeks (it used to
take four months), the over-all process takes only 25 minutes to an hour. The City has also provided computers
where taxpayers can freely access related real estate tax information.24
Marikina City also conducted a similar effort in 1997 when it automated its real property tax administration
by linking up with a private company. Naga City, a Galing Pook Awardee in 1996, is also in the process of full
computerization that would include the barangays. As a final example, the province of Catanduanes is considered a
model for rural telecommunications development. Through the efforts of Congressman Verceles, Jr., the province has
established the Catanduanes Community Television Network (CATVN), the Catanduanes Barangay Calling Station
Network with 140 public calling stations using cellular phones, and the Catanduanes Internet Network (CATNET).
As a result of increased access, local high schools and barangays are now able to enjoy audio-visual educational
and non-formal livelihood programs.
Drivers and Hurdles
Enabling Policy Environment
The country’s vision for the utilization of information technology as a tool for people empowerment and
global competitiveness is articulated in the National Information Technology Plan for the 21st Century. IT21 provides
a blueprint and timetable for the country to become a knowledge society, containing the goals and broad strategies
for use of IT in government as well as in other aspects of the economy.
Foremost in the list of policies relating to IT is the E-Commerce Act of 2000 or Republic Act 8792. It
provides the legal infrastructure for electronic transactions in the country. Its salient features include the recognition
of electronic documents and electronic data messages as legal documents with the “legal effect, validity or
enforceability as any other document or legal writing…”.25 In addition, the E-commerce Act recognizes electronic
signatures with certain assumptions. It also defines the rules against “cybercrimes” such hacking, misuse of
electronic documents and secrecy violations. Piracy of softwares is also prohibited under this act.26 With the
passage of this Act, the government has established the necessary policy and regulatory environment governing
online transactions. Since it is based on the Model Law on Electronic Commerce drafted by the United Nations
23
Ibid, pp. 1-30.
Liza Cruz, “Muntinlupa Automation Program Recognized as National Model,” Manila Bulletin, July 7, 2000.
25
Chapter Two, Section 7, Republic Act 8792 (Electronic Commerce Act of 2000).
26
Part IV, Section 23, (a) and (b), RA 8792.
24
Page 12 of 32
Commission for International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), the law also prepares the Philippines for participation in global
e-commerce.
Considered as the bible of the government’s IT sector, the approval of the Government Information Systems
Plan (GISP) provides a more comprehensive and operationalized strategy on the computerization of government. The
document contains the various infrastructures needed to wire-up the bureaucracy, identifies critical areas, strategies
and solutions, policy frameworks, and implementation and financing.
Other policies that affect IT investment in the country include the Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) that seeks
to achieve countrywide development through globally competitive industries. Implemented by the Philippine Board
of Investments, the IPP lays the incentives and investment areas specific for IT. Another is the Special Economic
Zone Act or RA 7916, which establishes the legal environment for economic zones (ecozones) such as information
technology parks. It provides incentives to businesses located in these ecozones. A recent guideline though
released by the BOI revealed that IT firms local or foreign need not locate themselves in IT parks to avail of the
incentives outlined in the Omnibus Code of 1987.27 Another regulatory policy is the country’s recognition of
intellectual property rights with the passage of the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines. The code enhances
the protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs), privacy and data security. Moreover, this code sets limits to the
use of pirated software.
Thus, there is a vision, a plan, and a set of basic safeguards. With these policies and the approval of the
GISP, the government has provided an enabling policy environment for IT use and development in government.
Institutional Framework and Program Implementation
With the policy framework in place, the next challenge would be in terms of program
implementation, in particular, with respect to the implementation of the GISP.
According to the Plan, the Department of Budget and Management shall be the chief GISP
implementor. However, the capacity and preparedness of the DBM to carry out the GISP, in terms of
mandate and resources, is unclear. Is there a permanent office within the DBM dedicated to this task?
As mentioned in the plan itself, the DBM currently has limited capacity and inadequate mechanism for
government-wide prioritization and determination of the required mix and levels of funding for
government IT projects. Obviously, such limitation will hamper the success of the GISP.
Other concerns involve the absence of a clear delineation of roles with respect to the management of
various aspects of the GISP including its realization at the local government unit level, and responsibility for the
GISP’s technical management component. There is also a need to demarcate responsibilities in networking and
linkaging processes, as well as in the formulation and monitoring of benchmarks and standards. Clear policy thrusts
27
Erwin Lemuel Oliva, “Are IT Ecozones Still Relevant?” Philippine Daily Inquirer, October 23, 2000.
Page 13 of 32
in the development of human resources, individual IT projects of agencies, procurement, and financing hinder the
widespread usage of IT for good government.28 There is also no comprehensive procurement policy of information
technologies and there arise problems in the sharing of technologies by different government agencies.29
Thus, a fragmented and weak governance structure for government IT initiatives remains a major hurdle.
Even as the broad policy framework has been created, implementation problems may arise when the “details” are not
clearly defined. In particular, ownership of the Plan and its various components must be clearly established.
The creation of the Information Technology and Electronic Commerce Council (ITECC) from the merger of
the National Information Technology Council and the Electronic Commerce Promotion Council (ECPC) is supposed to
oversee the implementation of IT21 and the GISP. Moreover, the ITECC is tasked to harmonize all the various IT
policies and programs. Hopefully, the newly created body will be able to solve the weak and/or missing institutional
arrangements needed for effective and efficient implementation of the various government IT initiatives.
Financing
Like most other government agencies and projects, the lack of funding serves as the main problem in
implementing the government’s IT plans. The DOST's e-governance projects, for example, are facing "severe
resource constraints" as there is still no disbursement form the DBM for its interactive/transactional portal for
DOST's e-commerce services, one of its priority projects.30 Bureaucratic delay and inefficiency also adds to the
problem of IT development, in the House of Representatives for instance, it is both tedious and difficult to justify IT
development-related purchases. By the time, the software and/or hardware is purchased, it is already obsolete.
Moreover, there is limited flexibility in the use of the agency’s budget. DECS, for instance, wants to build a kiosk or
center for IT services but their budget does not allow for the establishment of a new building.
In fact, even if a budget has been set aside it is not guaranteed. As described in the GISP, there is a
provision in the General Appropriations Act that allows agency heads to use IT funding for other projects in case of
a cash shortfall. During the year, as cash allocations for the common fund of agencies drop, agency heads may
decide to use the cash for more important programs. This situation becomes even more problematic when the IT
projects affected are part of inter-agency initiatives.
The discontinuity, delays, and the uneven pace of
implementation among interrelated IT programs and projects could result in huge inefficiencies and waste.
A good approach to ensuring funding is exemplified in the DA’s NIN system, which was able to get funding
for its IT system through the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA). The inclusion of an IT clause in
this bill facilitated and ensured that there will be funding for IT development. Section 41 of the AFMA provides that,
"A National Information Network (NIN) shall be set-up from the Department level down to the regional, provincial
and municipal offices within one year from the approval of this Act taking into account existing information networks
28
National Information Technology Council, Government Information Systems Plan, pp. 1-41.
Although NCC approves government agencies’ IT plans and thereby the procurement of information technologies,
the lack of a comprehensive policy can only cause delays in the acquisition of these technologies.
30
"Poor Funding Hounds E-Governance Thrust," Business World, October 5, 2000.
29
Page 14 of 32
and systems. The NIN shall likewise link the various research institutions for easy access to data on agriculture and
fisheries research and technology. All departments, agencies, bureaus, research institutions, and local government
units shall consolidate and continuously update all relevant information and data on a periodic basis and make such
data available on the Internet."
Part of the solution identified in the plan is to tap the private sector, which is not so different from the
strategy undertaken by the previous administration with respect to infrastructure financing (i.e., BOT and its
variants).
As a first step, determining which aspects of the government’s IT plan should be funded by the
government and which could be left to the private sector must be resolved.
Telecommunications Infrastructure
One criterion for electronic commerce as well as electronic democracy readiness is connectivity
or access. Currently, access to ICT such as Internet-based electronic commerce by ordinary citizens is
critically hampered by the limited access to telecommunications. Although the liberalization of the
telecommunications industry has significantly improved the availability of telephones, majority of the
population still do not enjoy the benefits of modern communications.
A study conducted by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC 2000)
on the state of telecommunications access in the country revealed that in 1998, there were more than 6
million lines installed resulting in teledensity of 8.41. However, less than half of the available capacity is
actually subscribed resulting in a teledensity for subscribed lines of 3.80 with a lower penetration rate of
2.77 if only the lines subscribed by residential users are considered. In terms of household penetration,
it was estimated that no more than 14.10% of Filipino households had a telephone given the number of
residential lines and the number of households at that time. Since some families may have more than one
telephone then this figure overstates actual household penetration.
As with most infrastructure service, the distribution of telephones in the country is concentrated in Metro
Manila enjoying an installed teledensity that is more than three times that of the next highest region, Southern
Tagalog, while the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) suffers from the lowest penetration rate. A
similar pattern can be seen in terms of subscribed teledensity.
GRAPH 1. REGIONAL TELEDENSITY (1998)
Page 15 of 32
35
30
25
20
Unsubscribed
15
Subscribed
10
NCR
ARMM
XIII
XII
XI
X
IX
VIII
VII
VI
V
IV
III
II
I
0
CAR
5
In terms of coverage, as the following table reveals, almost half of the cities and municipalities in the country
enjoy the benefits of private telephone service while a little more than three-quarters can rely on the presence of a
public payphone.
Cellular coverage is less widespread at only one-third of the total number of cities and
municipalities. Overall, 86 percent of the 1,609 cities and municipalities enjoy at least one type of telecommunications
service in their area.
Page 16 of 32
Table 2. COVERAGE OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES
Cities & Municipalities
(Total Philippines – 1,609)
Total
Number
765
1240
515
1359
1376
w/ LEC
w/ PCO/Public Payphone
w/ a Cellular coverage
w/ LEC or PCO/Public Payphone
w/ LEC or PCO/Public Payphone or Cellular coverage
% Share of
Total C & M
48 %
77 %
32 %
84 %
86 %
Latest figures from the National Telecommunications Commission on key indicators are shown in Table 3.
Table 3. LOCAL EXCHANGE CARRIER SERVICE (LEC)
As of December 1999
1999
No. of Operators
76
No. of Installed Lines
6,811,616
No. of Subscribers
2,892,435
Cities/Municipalities W/
Telephone Service
54%
Telephone Density (Inst.)
9.12
Source: National Telecommunications Commission (NTC)
As the figures show, even at the community level, physical access to a telecommunications network capable
of data traffic at an adequate bandwidth must be addressed to enable citizens to access government services and
information.
Page 17 of 32
Human Resources
One of the areas where the country has a comparative advantage is in our IT human resources. Our IT
personnel have been hailed by the government as skilled in computer technology and with a good command of the
English language (which is still the medium of business and diplomacy). The Philippine Business Report, published
by the DTI showed that a US-based survey on the “Global New E-conomy Index” placed the country on top of the
world ranking as number one in “knowledge jobs”.
The indicators used include the availability of qualified
engineers, IT skills and higher education enrollment.31 Enrollment in information technology rose from 36,947 in 1990
to 117,799 in 1995, while the number of graduates rose from 4,461 in 1990 to 11,598 in 1995. This data though
separates the graduates of engineering and technology.32 The effect of an attractive IT human resource is the
increased confidence in foreign investment to IT in the country, but also of piracy.
The high demand for Filipino IT professionals presents a serious problem for the government, which has to
compete not only with the local private sector but also with the rest of the world. Not only is it difficult to attract
qualified people, it is equally hard to retain highly skilled government IT staff members who are lured by private
companies and/or opt to work abroad.
As expected, government IT offices complain about the inadequacy of IT personnel. To illustrate, the
DoF’s CMIO is under-staffed with only four IT personnel doing various levels of IT work. The CSC laments the lack
of computer programmers and the lack of literacy training. The DENR’s DSSO only has 27 personnel and not
everybody gets to do IT-related job, since some administrative matters have to be attended, hence only 20 people are
assigned in systems development. In the case of the DSWD, the biggest problem encountered is the lack of work
force. Moreover, the people assigned in the IT section do not possess advanced computer skills. To cope with this
problem, the DSWD, given the absence of an office whose function is solely for IT development, created the Data
Management and Information Division under the Policy Plans and Information Bureau. Its objective is to give
attention to the IT aspect of data management and has an Information Technology Section. Since there are no
available IT positions, all personnel in the IT Section come from other divisions. As a final example, the IT-CAF of
the DA has at present 60 available positions but half of them remain unoccupied. Actually, the IT-CAF of the DA is
considered a good training ground and thus has become prone to piracy.
The current IT manpower policy should be evaluated to partly address this issue. As discussed in the GISP,
the classification and compensation policies in government have not been updated to accommodate new IT-related
positions or functions that have emerged as a result of increased computerization of the government workplace.
Moreover, the compensation structure in government does not provide a premium for skills that are in high demand
resulting in uncompetitive salaries.
Education & training play a crucial role in ensuring that despite the “brain drain” in IT personnel in the
government and largely in the country itself, there will be a continuous supply of competent human resources. It is
also critical in bridging the so-called “digital divide” with respect to skill requirements. Although there is no
31
Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Business Report, Vol. 11 No. 7 (July 2000).
Page 18 of 32
guarantee that those who will come from these training centers will stay (as in the case of the DA), it will nonetheless
partly address the lack of personnel complement or so-called “people-ware”.
Socio-Cultural Issues
A final stumbling block relates to the receptiveness to the use of IT within and outside government.
Making a commitment to fund IT programs and projects is one form of support needed from our leaders. In turn,
there must be sufficient public support for government to invest in IT over other public needs. A limited government
budget needs to make sacrifices in some sectors to be able to invest in others. It may be difficult to make a case for
investments in IT over traditional public expenditures so there must be sufficient public support for government to
invest in IT over other public needs.
Aside from a political commitment that translates to more funds, support for IT use in government agencies
needs to be strengthened as well. Having in place the necessary system does not guarantee the full support of the
people in government offices. For example, the Legal System of DAR fails to fulfill its function because the end users
refused to update the information (e.g. status of the cases). Even within DENR there is a resistance for the fear that
the DSSO will become very powerful, after it has evolved to an important component of the Department.
Thus, if the users do not cooperate, it is difficult to make the system operational unless there is a mechanism
by which users' compliance could be enforced. Government personnel relations are equally important in ensuring
that the technologies will be maximized. With respect to the general public, there is a need to influence attitudes
toward these new technologies to increase acceptance and utilization. Training and education on its proper as well
as improper use must be undertaken.
32
http://www.info.com.ph/chedco/ipd1.htm/
Page 19 of 32
Conclusion
Information technology contributes to good governance by (1) increasing transparency, information, and
accountability, (2) facilitating accurate decision-making and public participation, and (3) enhancing efficient delivery
of government services.
Currently, the national and local governments are implementing various IT initiatives to
maximize its potential.
Although the overall policy framework to guide IT use in government is already in place, there are still a
number of concerns that will need to be addressed for the effective use of IT for good governance. These drivers
and hurdles raise several issues for strategic inquiry and action.33
Reinventing government as an organization
The adoption of IT in government business processes affects all aspects of the organization. It impacts
policies and procedures relating to hiring of personnel, human resource deployment, budgeting, financing,
procurement, and others. With an organization as big as government where each of these functions are conducted
by separate agencies, creating an e-government will require effective management to orchestrate IT efforts that seem
fragmented and piecemeal.
Implementing e-government is complex and requires not only a vision and a plan but also strong political
leadership at the highest level. Leadership also means that a permanent team has to be put in place within
government that has the political clout and the funding to force government managers to rethink current working
practices and impose technology standards.
Distributional effects
A prerequisite for active participation in the modern society is access to the physical communications
network. Given the current imbalance of access to communications facilities, an important issue that must be studied
is the extent to which this may result in the unequal distribution of the gains from the use of IT by the government.
The digital divide has implications for digital democracy in its various forms such as online voting, opinion polling,
soliciting feedback on legislative drafts, and electronic-petitions. Will the use of IT contribute to even greater social
and economic inequalities?
33
See The Economist (June 2000) for a comprehensive survey of the problems, approaches, and other insights on egovernment, some of which are mentioned in this section.
Page 20 of 32
What can be done to ensure widespread availability of ICT at the community level (e.g., multi-purpose
kiosks or telecenters)? Aside from physical access, are there other factors, e.g., basic skills and language, which act
as barriers to the successful utilization of IT for good governance at the community level?
Various technology solutions integrating different communications media are already available to
deal with the digital divide. However, currently the country does not have the policy and regulatory
framework governing convergence and so this is another area for action.
Advocacy, Acceptance, Attitude
A culture receptive to e-governance will have to be cultivated to increase the success of IT for good
governance, both inside and outside government. Civil society can play an active role in advocacy efforts.
It is also critical to build the trust and confidence of the general public in conducting electronic transactions.
In addition to maintaining the highest standards of data and privacy protection, how can we encourage citizens to
make the web the preferred channel in conducting business with the government and for acquiring information? Do
we need to provide incentives for transacting on-line and disincentives for transacting off-line?
Relevance of information made available on the websites will also increase utilization. An information needs
assessment among the target users or clientele must be conducted on a regular basis to make sure that the data or
information posted are relevant as well as adequate in scope and frequency.
Forging Public/Private Partnerships
Given the resource constraints in the public sector, innovative provision and financing models will have to
be introduced to meet the government’s IT needs.
With sufficient incentives, the private sector would be encouraged to participate. One question that we
need to look into is if a regulatory framework is needed to govern partnerships between the government and the
private sector. The rules could cover for example, the extent of risk sharing or revenue sharing as well as establis h
the parameters allowing private sector to supply public services and to package these with commercial services.
In addition to finding the optimal mix of public-private financing and provision, best practice models in other
aspects, for example, education and training should be explored. In addition, industry and government could work
together to establish a national IT human resource plan.
Page 21 of 32
Annex 1.
Government ICT Projects 34
(Ongoing)
Project Title
Description
Proponent
Agency/Office
Duration
Project Cost /
Funding Source
Agriculture/Agrarian Sector
Agriculture
Information
Network (Agrinet)
Computerization of
the Land Titling
System
This project will put together all agriculturalrelated information generated by government
and non-government organizations on
production, post-production and marketing
activities of farmers and fishermen. This will
likewise involve the setting up a wide area
network that will interconnect the regional field
units (RFUs), bureaus, attached agencies and
Research Outreach Stations (ROS) of the
department.
Department of
Agriculture (DA)
This involves computerization of the
processing and issuance of land titles to
improve the land management record system in
the country
Land
Registration
Authority (LRA)
4-5 years
PhP1.520M
(PhP800M 1st
year; PhP720M
succeeding
years)
13 years
PhP3B
Communication Sector
National Telephone
Program (NTP)
Tranche I-2, ROT
Stage II
Establishment of 13,728 digital telephone lines DOTC/CPMO-NTP
covering fourteen (14) municipalities in Regions 1-2
VI, VII & VIII.
FRF 144,674,252
National Telephone
Program (NTP)
Tranche 1-3
Establishment of 32,800 digital telephone lines to DOTC-CPMO
31 cities/municipalities in regions IX, X, XI & XII
including high density 140 Mb/s backbone
network.
US$43M
National Telephone
Program (NTP), 1-3
Phase 4
Project involves the provision of a total of 45,000 DOTC
telephone lines to 80 localities surrounding the
NTP tranche 1-3 backbone in Mindanao areas
and the establishment of a digital transmission
network, thereby extending to underserved
areas.
US$123.00M
34
National Information Technology Council, Government Information Systems Plan, Annex A-1.
Page 22 of 32
Regional
Telecommunications
Development Project
(RTDP) Phase C
Establishment and expansion of 6,200 digital
DOTC-CPMO
telephone lines to 30 localities in regions I&II
including establishment of backbone network to
loop the RTDP communication network in CAR,
Region I & II.
Y 3,803.00
Telecoms Component AGILE is an action-oriented activity to support DOTC/NTC
of Accelerating
economic policy liberalization and enhance
Growth, Investment competition in the Philippines. It will restructure
and Liberalization
and consolidate the USAID/Manila approach to
with Equity (AGILE) improve the Philippine economic policy
Project
environment.
1998-present
Data
Communications
Engineering
DOTC-TTI
August 1997March 2000
Advanced
Improved Technical and Technological
Telecommunications Education/Training for 16 people.
Outside Plant
Technology – Fiber
Optics
DOTC-TTI
1998-2002
DOST Bicutan Fiber This project is an FDDI/Switched Ethernet
Optic Backbone
backbone. This backbone is a 100Mbps Fiber
project
Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) network, a
high performance fiber optic timed token ring
LAN running at 100Mbps over distances up to
200Kms with up to 1000 stations connected, that
connects a ring of thirteen Switched Ethernet
hubs operating at 10Mbps.
Department of
Science and
Technology
(DOST)
2 years
Individual Expert Dispatch
US$1.0M of
US$27.0M
P8,625,400
DOST Fund
This electronic backbone is expected to improve
communications within the DOST Bicutan
campus, provide faster access to S & T
information and support interactive applications
such as video-conferencing. The network will
provide dedicated high-speed and highly reliable
connections among agencies in Bicutan.
Strengthening
Information
Networking in
Catanduanes- a
GISTNET Pilot
Project, Phase II:
Setting-up a Fiber
Optic System Loop in
the Mun. of Virac
DOST-PCASTRD Nov. 1998thru Catanduanes present
State College
Connecting People The project aims to develop and pilot-test an
DOST-CARAGA
and Organizations for information and communications system in rural
Rural Dev’t. Through communities.
Multi-Purpose
Telecenters in
Selected Barangays
PhP9.9M
PhP14.0M
Page 23 of 32
Computer Assistance The project aims to develop and pilot-test an
DOST-CARAGA
to Selected Schools information and communications system in rural
in CARAGA
communities.
Establishment of an
Internet Service
Provider in the
Province of Nueva
Vizcaya
The project aims to provide connectivity
services to the provice
DOST II
Science and
Technology
Information Network
and Technical
Services (STINTS)
The project has established a PSTC-based rural
telecom backbone for sectors that do not have
Internet access with Y2K awareness and
information technology appreciation activities
on the first phase.
DOST XI
PhP1.0M
1997-present
PhP0.65M
PhP3.0M
Education Sector
Upgrading the IT
infrastructure of the
Science Education
Network for Year
2000 and beyond
The project aims to upgrade the IT facilities of
SEI for Y2K compliance as provided for by the
law.
DOST-SEI
1999-present
PhP1.17M
DOST-SEI
1999-present
PhP0.71M
Establishing a
The project aims to collect and systematize data DOST-SEI
Philippine Database on science education through electronic
in Science Education networking of data such as thesis, dissertations,
publications and other research materials. It will
put up and develop structures that would allow
said information or data to be stored as
databases and accessed by different users. A
basic feature is to establish linkages among
concerned institutions via computers.
1995-present
PhP0.34M
Development of
Database for S&T
Manpower and
Science Culture and
Strengthening
Institutional
Capabilities
Started 1999
PhP0.16M
Strengthening of SEI The project aims to strengthen and improve the
Electronic Linkages connectivity of SEI to the different network
through the
institutions and to the Internet.
Establishment of an
Institutional Internet
Backbone
The project aims to develop databases that will DOST-SEI
update students, teachers, researchers, policy
decision-makers, and other interested individuals
on current and future development in S&T
education. Several data from the different SEI
divisions were identified and will be encoded
into the databases to be developed which will be
transferred eventually to the SEI website.
Page 24 of 32
Mobile Information
Technology
Classroom
The project aims to develop an information
culture and a technology-literate public
preparatory to modernization. It promotes
information technology awareness through
hands-on computer activities. The MITC is an
airconditioned bus equipped with the latest in
education technology facilities and interactive
instructional/learning materials in
science/mathematics. Teacher facilitators were
trained to man the MITC.
DOST-CARAGA
PhP5.92M
Establishment of a
Computer Center at
Isabela State
University
The project’s aim is to put up a computer center DOST II
in the northern part of Isabela with the objective
of increasing/improving computer literacy of
elementary and secondary public school
teachers. Modems are provided, thus, the center
also serves as an Internet workstation.
1997-present
PhP0.24M
Establishment of a
Computer Center at
Nueva Vizcaya
General
Comprehensive High
School
The project’s aim is to put up a computer center DOST II
in Nueva Vizcaya with the objective of
increasing/improving computer literacy of
elementary and secondary public school
teachers. Modems are provided, thus, the center
also serves as an Internet workstation.
1997-present
PhP0.23M
DOST-CIT Basic
Multimedia Training
and Development
Center
The project aims to provide a venue to train IT DOST VII & CIT
professionals in multimedia production
techniques in order to develop a pool of
multimedia experts that will lure foreign investors
in the IT to invest in the Philippines. The center
will also provide a venue for the development of
local multimedia products.
1995-present
PhP10.0M
DOST-CIT Computer
Software Training
and Development
Center
The training center serves as a venue to promote DOST VII & CIT
the development of the IT industry in the region
and to enhance the skills of IT graduates and
professionals in software development.
1994-present
PhP2.5M
Upgrading
Communication and
Information
Technology for
Education and
Sustainable AgroIndustrial
Development
To enhance the existing capability of the UPLB UPLB
in communication and information technology in
its vision of making significant contributions to
education and sustainable, agro-industrial
development in the Philippines and surrounding
region. This entails upgrading of communication
and information technology hardware. A minor
component of the requested grant aid will be
building renovation to accommodate staff and
facilities to be displaced by the addition of new
equipment.
PhP281.2 M
(foreign cost)
Page 25 of 32
Finance Sector
Budget Execution
and Accountability
Tracking (BEAT)
System
Strengthen DBM’s expenditure management
DBM
capability; streamline budget release procedures
and improve front-line service; improve budget
administration and accountability; and update
budget analysis and decision making.
5 years
Government
Purchases
Information System
(GPIS)
Is a computer based price monitoring system
principally intended to facilitate government
procurement and discourage overpricing. GPIS
basic concept is built on the thesis that
procurement is at the same time an economic
activity and an administrative process.
Started 1997
(for expansion)
Physical Assets
Management and
Information System
(PAMIS)
Formulate Physical Assets Standards and
DBM
Guidelines; install Physical Assets
Administration System; provide a computerized
Agency Physical Assets Monitoring System;
and develop and install Agency Module on:
Inventory Management, Maintenance
Management and Executive Information System.
1 ½ year
GSIS
Computerization
Project
Phase I (1996) project aims to establish a wide
area network (WAN) connecting GSIS’s 27
branches nationwide and to develop and
implement the Membership Services and
Information System.
4 years
Business Recovery
Center
Multi-million project aims to “ensure nationwide Social Security
availability of SSS’ Information Systems should System (SSS)
the Main Data Center and/or any of its regional
branch hub data centers become inoperative”
due to disasters.
Commission on
Audit (COA)
Government
Service Insurance
System (GSIS)
PhP400M
(1999-2002)
5 years
PhP179.2M
(1997-2002)
(Cost for
succeeding years
is subject to
changes)
Governance Sector
Advisory Network
for the Government
Executive and
Legislature (ANGEL)
To establish electronic linkages among the
executive and legislative offices involved in
Legislative-Executive Development Advisory
Council (LEDAC).
NEDA/OP
PhP8M
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NEDA Information
Network Project
(NINP)
To improve development planning, investment NEDA
programming and project monitoring activities in
support of the Medium Term Philippine
Development Plan (MTPDP) and to a large
extent, IT21 through the use of IT resources.
PhP63.6M
The project is divided into three (3) major
components: 1) Development and
Institutionalization of Mission-Critical
Information Systems; 2) Establishment of IT
Resources (hardware and software)
Infrastructure; and 3) IT Manpower Capability
Building.
Government
To formulate an Integrated Government
NEDA
Information Systems Information Systems Strategic Plan for the
Plan (GISP) Project medium-term which will be called the GISP. The
GISP will set the vision and framework for
computerization efforts in government over the
next 5-6 years. It aims to provide for seamless
and more efficient electronic governance,
consistent with the goals and objectives of
Angat Pinoy 2004 and the National Information
Technology Plan for the 21st Century (IT21).
Data and Information
Resource Program in
Support of Policy
Research and
Decision Making
The project seeks to create a user-friendly
PIDS
economic database system (EDS) to store and
maintain databases from various sources. It is
intended to facilitate networking among
government and private sector institutions
through Data and Information Resource Program
(DIRP). With the project, it is envisioned that
policymakers and researchers will enjoy easier
access to international databases as well as the
regular Philippine data series.
PhP3.4M
DOST Fund
3 years 1998present
PhP7.7M
3 years
PhP100M
Labor Sector
DOLE
Computerization
Project
Involves the establishment of a wide area
network that will link all DOLE offices and the
creation of several modules that will run on the
network. Also included is the development of a
Labor Market Information System (LMIS).
Department of
Labor and
Employment
(DOLE)
(1997-2000)
Military Sector
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PRC Marine Officers
Licensing and
Certification System
and Networking
Project
The project aims to accomplish: 1) Online
Transaction Processing and faster service
completion time; and 2) Better and Improved
Quality of Products and Services.
PRC
PhP15.8M
The project intends to benefit not only the
marine professionals but also the other
professional groups under the supervision and
jurisdiction of the Commission. The networking
system that will be establish shall ensure a
smooth and efficient communication between
and among the systems currently existing and
being maintained by the Commission.
Science and Technology Sector
Strengthening/
Upgrading of FNRI
Library Information
Database
The project aims to develop a specialized library DOST-FNRI
to meet the research information needs of policymakers, researchers and other nutrition workers;
to promote and coordinate the development of
the libraries in the field through
trainings/seminars and conferences; encourage
the exchange of food and nutrition information
within the country, and to maintain links with
national and international organizations engaged
in food and nutrition services.
1998-present
PhP2.54M
Upgrading of FNRI
IT Facilities
The objectives of the project are: To improve
DOST-FNRI
and standardize the computerization in the
Institute including both hardware and software;
to adopt and make use of the new trends in
software and hardware technology ; to support
DOST’s and the government’s program of using
IT to improve government processes; and to
expand the institutes network and improve
connection to the internet to prepare the
Institute to e-commerce.
1998-present
PhP2.10M
Software on Energy
Equivalent
The project aims to develop a user-friendly
DOST-FNRI
computer software which shows the estimated
amount of energy to burn off calories from some
food items in excess of requirement and to serve
as a guide to implement control of maintenance
program.
Started 1999
PhP0.22M
Started 1994
PhP0.50M
Technology Delivery The project aims to develop a database on
DOST-FPRDI
Information and
technology transfer activities of the institute and
Referral System
other related information. Activities included are:
technology piloting and commercialization,
technical assistance/consultation and advisory
services, trainings conducted, socio-economics,
and technology assessment.
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FPRDI Publication
This project involves development of a database DOST-FPRDI
Abstract Information on abstract of journals, manuals, books, articles
System
and related literature published by FPRDI.
Started 1995
PhP0.05M
Market Information This is a database on market information for
Generation for FPRDI FPRDI technologies.
DOST-FPRDI
Started 1997
PhP0.10M
This is a database management system on the
DOST-FPRDI
properties and characteristics of Philippine trees
which have been studied in the institute. These
properties include: anatomical, physical,
chemical and mechanical properties.
Started 1996
PhP0.10M
Bamboo Information This is a database management system on the
DOST-FPRDI
System
anatomical, physical, chemical, and mechanical
properties and characteristics of bamboo which
have been studied in the institute.
Started 1998
PhP0.05M
Rattan Information
System
1998-present
PhP0.05M
1999-2004
PhP0.52M
Philippine Trees
Information System
This is a database management system on the
anatomical, physical, chemical, and mechanical
properties and characteristics of rattan which
have been studied in the institute.
DOST-FPRDI
Metalworking
The project involves gathering of detailed
DOST-MIRDC
Industry Information information on the metalworking industry,
Database
specifically the general profile of the firms which
include plant capacity, product lines, number of
workers, equipment and machinery’s capacity
and precision and types of metal working
processes employed.
Supplemental
Support to the
Strengthening of IT
Capabilities in
Catanduanes
The project aims to develop manpower
capabilities in networking and to catalyze R&D
activities in the area. It also aims to improve
access to information by residents, thereby
expanding their opportunities for accelerating
economic and social growth.
DOST-PCASTRD
thru Catanduanes
State College
PhP4.5M
Algebraic Algorithms The project focuses on designing new efficient
for Certain
and infallible algebraic methods for certain
CAD/CAM Problems problems in CAD/CAM, particularly those
related to rational parametric surfaces.
DOST-PCASTRD
thru UPD-CS
PhP0.20M
MIN is a world wide web-based information
DOST-PCASTRD
service, as well as an interactive system geared
to expedite the formation of strategic business
alliances among small and medium scale (SMEs)
and other stakeholders. Six services were made
available and accessible through the MIN
website.
Started in 1996 PhP19.8M
Mango Information
Network (MIN)
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Development of
Specialty Database
and Internet
Resources on
Medicinal Plants
The project involves the creation of the e-Health DOST-PCHRD
component site on medicinal plants. Information
on medicinal plants will be gathered and
processed in addition to what is currently
available in HERDIN database. The resulting
database shall contain information on research ,
researchers, research organizations, market and
business information.
1998-present
Php0.50M
Development of
Specialty Database ,
CD-ROM, and
Internet Resources
on Malaria
The project aims to develop a one-stop shop
DOST-PCHRD
information resource on malaria. At present, fulltext documents are being scanned into a
Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) format.
The website that will be developed for this
project will contain articles in HTML format and
will contain articles, graphics, profiles, statistics,
and other relevant information about malaria.
Started in 1996 PhP0.38M
Establishing a
National Engineering
Information Systems
and Services (NEISS)
in the Philippines
The project aims to harness I.T. in advancing
DOST-PCIERD
and promoting the level of learning, awareness
and productivity of engineers, students, faculty,
researchers, and others involved in research and
development.
Started in 1999 PhP6.93M
Extending support to the nineteen (19)
engineering network schools throughout the
country, the project provides access to
Engineering Information through the World
Wide Web.
Support Operations: The project provides for the development of
DOST-PTRI
Information Services effective information systems for efficient
delivery of relevant and timely information that
will assist the textiles and garment industries to
be on top of new textiles advances and
development. Through the systematic collection,
organization, storage and retrieval of textiles and
textiles related information materials for the
development and improvement of the PTRI
Technical Library Service, it will assist the
researcher in the conduct of their research
activities.
1998-present
PhP1.92M
Textile Information
Management and
Awareness Service
The dissemination of up-to-date information on DOST-PTRI
the textile processes, raw materials, products
technology, and developments and fashion
trends will continuously help the textile and
garment manufacturers in improving the quality
of their production.
1999-present
PhP2.19M
Information
Packaging
The project involves the production of regular
STII publication, The Philippine Journal of
Science in electronic version.
DOST-STII
(under agency
budget)
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Establishment of
Philippine Database
in Science Education
(ECOTECH LINK)
ECOTECH LINK is a meta-database or organized DOST-STII
and exhaustive pointer database that includes
brief descriptions of different organizations
carrying technology and economic information
and links to other groups carrying related
information.
(under agency
budget)
S&T Info Web
The S&T Info Web is a virtual system which
DOST-STII
connects the institute to the entire DOST system
and to the rest of the world. Created in 1997 and
made available on-line in 1998, the S&T Info
Web is home to ten databases, six publications
and eight home pages. As of July 1999, the S&T
Web has been accessed 206,166 times by
various internet searchers and surfers.
(under agency
budget)
Establishment of
This project is conceived to provide the public DOST II
Cagayan Valley
relevant and updated information about Region
Information Network II
Started 1999
PhP0.10M
Operation of the
The project aims to establish a center for the
DOST VII
Regional Metals and production of highly precisioned metal products
Engineering Service using CNC technologies.
Centers
1998-2004
PhP12.0M
Establishment of
Cebu Design
Engineering Center
The project aims to provide a center for the
development of machine design engineers and
product design capabilities using
CAD/CAM/CAE technologies.
DOST VII
1999-2004
PhP2.0M
Data Acquisition
Training and
Development Center
CITE, San Jose,
Talamban, Cebu
The project aims to provide a center which will
develop local capabilities in automated
manufacturing for enhancing product quality
and productivity of SMEs in Central Visayas
DOST VII
1996-present
PhP1.25M
10 years
P2 Billion
Tourism Sector
DFA Machine
Readable Passports
and Visas (MRP/V)
Project
The project aims to streamline and modernize the Department of
issuance process, introduce security features in Foreign Affairs
passports and visas and ensure compliance with (DFA)
the international standards on travel documents.
Under BOT scheme
The system will also create a database where all
applicant information will be stored for easy
access, and feature an interface that will allow
the department to streamline verification
procedures with other government agencies.
Trade Sector
Page 31 of 32
Philippine Trade and A locally funded project, PhilTINS is a
Department of
Investment Network computerized “one-stop system” linked to DTI’s Trade and Industry
System (PhilTINS)
regional and overseas offices and trade
(DTI/BETP)
associations for the storage and retrieval of
timely information on trade and investment. This
central facility will lessen the man-hours needed
for research and make DTI services more
accessible to the public, boosting eventually
exports and investment.
1999Preparatory
2000-System
Development
PhP18.9M
10 years
US$49.7B
Transportation Sector
LTO Information
The project is in line with the IT21 which calls for LTO/DOTC
Technology (Build- intensive diffusion and use of IT in government
Own-Operate) Project operations. The project involves the
development, operation and maintenance of an
integrated IT system by way of the BOO scheme
over a concession period of 10 years in
accordance with R.A. 7718, the Amended BOT
Law.
The project will interconnect LTO's more than
200 offices nationwide, enable on-line
transaction processing and integrate critical
processes.
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