DICT kicks off eLGU and eGovPH app information campaign in Region 7

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region 7 is hosting the kick-off ceremony for the implementation of Electronic Local Government Unit System (eLGU) alongside the eGovPH App information campaign on October 21, 2024, at the JPark Island Resort and Waterpark in Mactan Cebu, aims to enhance digital governance among local government units across Central Visayas.

The eLGU system is one of the nationwide E-Government initiatives designed to streamline government service delivery through digital transformation. It provides digital platforms for essential services such as business registration, tax payments, and access to public documents, fostering transparency, accessibility, and efficiency in government processes and transactions.

The eGovPH App serves as a unified digital platform that facilitates seamless transactions between citizens and government agencies. By consolidating various government services into a single online portal, it enhances connectivity and reduces transaction times for the public. Initially introduced in June 2023 and fully launched by December 2023, the app has already attracted more than 8 million users to date.

The eLGU and eGovPH app are among the 25 digital platforms developed by the DICT to advance e-governance and drive digital transformation across the country, with Region 7 fully supporting and cooperating in this nationwide initiative.

“The rollout of the eLGU system and the eGovPH App Information Campaign in Region 7 marks a crucial step toward achieving a digitally inclusive government. These efforts are designed to equip local government units with digital tools that optimize service delivery and simplify processes,” said Usec David Almirol Jr., Undersecretary for e-Governance at DICT.

Driving digital governance with eLGU and eGovPH App

At the heart of E-Government is the DICT’s eLGU (Electronic Local Government Unit) system. It revolutionizes local governance by making the LGUs electronically enabled thereby improving the delivery of public service, promoting transparency in government transactions, and increasing public access to government information services, among others. This system supports the implementation of the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Services Delivery Act of 2018, or R.A. 11032.

“The Cebu launch will showcase the eLGU system’s features, encouraging stakeholders in the province to adopt a more digital-first approach to governance," Director Jun Vincent Manuel Gaudan, Director for Management Information System Service at DICT revealed.

The eLGU  acts as a digital gateway that simplifies key government processes, making services like business registration more accessible and efficient. By adopting this platform, LGUs can implement Business One-Stop-Shop (BOSS) operations, enabling faster processing, improved content management, and timely notifications.

"This initiative aligns with President Marcos Jr.'s vision for an agile bureaucracy through digitization, making government services more accessible across the country," said Usec Heherson Asiddao, Undersecretary for Support Services at DICT.

To ensure a smooth transition, DICT is taking a “hand-holding” approach, working closely with LGUs to integrate digital solutions into their daily operations, Asiddao added.

Laying the groundwork for digital readiness

As part of the rollout, a "Digital Maturity eReadiness Survey" will assess the technological capabilities of LGUs across Cebu, identifying gaps in digital infrastructure and tailoring interventions to ensure the successful implementation of the eLGU system.

Additionally, a conference is planned for Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and technical representatives from various LGUs to foster collaboration on digital initiatives. This event will enable participants to share insights and best practices for improving governance through technology.

“Success depends on strong partnerships between DICT, local government executives, and stakeholders. With a focus on digital maturity, DICT is leading the transformation of local governance through cutting-edge technology,” Asec Maria Teresa Camba, Assistant Secretary for Regional Development added.

To drive awareness and adoption, the DICT will launch a comprehensive marketing campaign for the eGovPH and eLGU systems. This campaign will emphasize the benefits of these platforms and promote public awareness through various channels, including digital media and community outreach.

“With the rollout of the eLGU system, the future of public service in the Philippines will become more efficient, accessible, and digitally driven,”Daanbantayan Mayor and President of the Cebu Mayors League, Mayor Sun Shimura expressed.###