An official of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines-Southern Mindanao Business Council (ECCP-SMBC) lauded Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte’s direction to work closely with the business sector as well as for pushing for the digitalization of public transactions.
“We welcome the statement of Mayor Sebastian Duterte to continue working with the business sector on improving further the gains made on the implementation of the “Ease of Doing Business Act”. Much has to be done in processing business permits to make these seamless and efficient. Foremost is the computerization of the entire process. This should bring Davao City at par not only with Manila or Cebu but closer to what we see in our neighbors like Singapore or Kuala Lumpur,” said Tony Peralta, chairman of ECCP-SMBC.
In his inaugural speech on June 27, 2022, the mayor-elect will be pushing for the digitalization of public transactions and the delivery of government services.
“It is high time that we upgraded our services on par with international standards. Let us take advantage of the latest available technology and let us ensure global competitiveness when it comes to government operations. Digital transformation is not an easy task but with your support this can be achieved,” he said.
He also wants red tape and fixing to end immediately and urged the public to report them to the authorities, to the City Mayor’s Office (CMO) and to the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA).
Peralta said that it is the recommendations of the business sector for the formation of a Private Sector (representing the local and foreign chambers) and City Government Working Group to help improve communications on the concerns of business establishments on doing business with the local government. The inclusion of the Davao City Investment Promotion Center is suggested.
“The push for the modernization of business processes through efficient implementation of computerized platforms is necessary with the objective of having online application or renewal of business permits. Utilization of e-payment platforms for tax or fee payments. This may require COA approval,” he said.
Peralta is optimistic that these initial measures will help decongest the crowds of people in the business section of the city hall.
“Greater cooperative efforts between the private sector and the city government is needed to ensure better results from the Ease of Doing Business Act. This will help promote more local and foreign investments from happening,” he said.
