The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has been embarking on projects to pave the way for the digitalization of systems across various local government units (LGUs) in Western Visayas.

DICT-6 Information Systems Researcher III Michael Lagos, during the special edition of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas in celebration of National Statistics Month on Wednesday, Oct. 2, said that aside from their e-government project, their main project is the provision of software systems that will advance the business permit licensing system of LGUs.

“As DICT, we provided free systems which also enhance ease of doing business, helping in terms of data. Our system is connected to PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority) standard classification of businesses, which helps PSA consolidate data for business and economic data,” he said.

At present, 84 of the 133 LGUs in Western Visayas have availed of the system. Others have their own system or have tapped private providers.

He added that while it is not necessary for them to link their system with the DICT, the advantage of having it is that they could have it for free.

The digital system covers from online applications to releasing of permits for business applications.

“We are assisting the LGUs with configuring the system to meet the standard of the PSA,” he added.

He encouraged government agencies to avail of the gov.mail because it is very helpful in determining authenticity.

“When it is gov.mail, it is from a government agency. It is authentic,” he added.

Anyone can make an email using regular emails, and making a fake email is easier.

In the same press conference, PSA-6 acting regional director Nelida Amolar said digitalization can help hasten the collection and processing of data, making it easier for researchers and policymakers to access the needed information.

She added though that while awareness of the significance of statistics is higher among students, there is a need to intensify campaigns for the general public, especially in far-flung areas.

Amolar said statistics is very relevant because it helps in decision-making and provides information on societal issues, among others.

This year’s NSM celebration anchors on the theme “Advancing Data and Statistics Through Digital Transformation: A Road to an Empowered Nation.”Perla Lena/PNA