THE GOVERNMENT must transform business processes before automating services, the Anti-Bureaucracy Authority (ARTA) has said.
“Business process transformation before automation, because as soon as you automate efficient processes, you can maximize the benefits, as opposed to automating an inefficient process,” said Gerald G. Divinagracia, deputy general manager of ARTA for operations, during a Stratbase ADR briefing on Thursday.
“There was a need for government agencies to transform their services to provide excellent services. However, we see government services online (that are) not yet connected end-to-end. The services are not fully automated…That is why we have embarked on transparency and connectivity in terms of end-to-end processes,” he added.
Mr. Divinagracia cited business challenges, such as poor turnaround times, government fees and requirements, and lack of predictability.
“To solve this problem, we can resort to two major (approaches): a favorable regulatory framework and the provision of government support and services. Streamlining and enabling agencies to streamline their processes,” he said.
Makati Business Club Executive Director Francisco Alcuaz, Jr. said the government should promote transparency in its policies, especially in the areas of freedom of information; Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN); money laundering; and banking secrecy.
“If you strengthen the SALN rules and relax the bank secrecy law, you will help prosecutors and even ARTA pursue officials and companies that corrupt the system. This will level the playing field and attract businesses that play by the rules,” Alcuaz said.
“Companies want to play in the Philippines. Rather than corruption, money will be invested in more infrastructure that lasts longer. Not in infra where they cut corners or skimp on materials that deteriorate within a few years,” he added.
Mr Alcuaz said a transparent government would help attract investors.
“If you have transparent government rather than corruption, the money that businessmen spend will be spent on developing the best products and services for Filipinos and/or foreign buyers and for the world, as well as on investments and expansions that will create more jobs. ,” he added. – Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson