Manila cited for cutting down red tape

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has adjudged Manila as one of the model local government units for its success in fighting and cutting bureaucratic red tape.

Along with Manila, DILG’s Local Government Academy cited Las Piñas City, Makati City and Muntinlupa City as among the highly urbanized cities whose current administrations have become bureaucratic models.

Manila Mayor Lito Atienza attributed the success of the anti-red tape program to the government’s effort to streamline operations for the past three years.

He also cited as part of the success, the full cooperation extended by City Hall personnel and barangay officials.

"The most important component here is political will," said Atienza adding, "one does not have to be a rocket scientist or a management expert to streamline local government operations and eliminate red tape."

Atienza said the centerpiece of the streamlining program was the establishment of an airconditioned lounge for taxpayers similar to those in commercial banks.

"Once a taxpayer enters the lounge, he submits his documents and is issued a number. Then, all he has to do is to sit in one of the comfortable chairs while his papers are processed," Atienza said. "While waiting for his name to be called, the taxpayer can read newspapers or watch television while sipping hot coffee or juices for free, served by City Hall staff."

Where it once took five days to two weeks, the mayor noted that licenses and permits are now issued in three hours.

Following the commendation, Manila City Hall officials gave a tour to officials of LGUs from different localities of the Manila City Hall, particularly the taxpayers’ lounge.

Officials said the tour was part of a workshop for local officials dubbed "Streamlining Regulatory Systems: Anti-Red Tape Seminar Workshop for local officials and functionaries." – Cecille Suerte Felipe