An executive order (EO) streamlining the permitting process for infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs), will boost the country’s infrastructure drive as it is seen to address implementation bottlenecks, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
In a statement yesterday, NEDA said EO 59 signed last April 30 seeks to expedite the implementation of the country’s IFPs.
“By streamlining the processing of IFPs, we are making it easier for implementing agencies and more attractive for our partners in the private sector to execute transformative infrastructure projects that would spur job creation for our people and enable us to sustain our economy’s rapid expansion,” NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.
The implementation of EO 59 simplifies the requirements for the NEDA Board-approved list of IFPs. Additionally, it directs national government agencies (NGAs) and local government units (LGUs) to review their Citizen’s Charters, aiming to eliminate redundant and cumbersome procedures.
“The primary goal of this EO is to minimize, if not eliminate, delays in the implementation of IFPs. We are in a hurry to catch up with our neighbors in the region so the government must enable–not hinder–the timely completion of these projects,” Balisacan said.
The IFP list consists of 185 projects valued at P9.14 trillion.
The EO also embraces the use of technology, as it facilitates electronic application submissions to concerned agencies and LGUs, including streamlined payment processes and issuance of receipts.
It likewise encourages a whole-of-government approach by mandating NGAs to automate and computerize their databases. This move promotes data sharing among government entities, eliminating unnecessary document duplication, NEDA said.
EO 59 mandates LGUs to establish business one-stop shops, simplifying interactions for investors. NEDA said they are encouraged to collaborate with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to adopt interoperable ICT platforms.
The EO covers all NGAs, government-owned or -controlled corporations and other government instrumentalities. It applies to LGUs involved in the issuance of licenses, clearances, permits, certifications and authorizations that are required for projects included in the NEDA Board-approved list of IFPs.
“With this EO in place, the administration signifies its commitment to aggressively advance infrastructure development as a key driver to our social and economic transformation,” Balisacan said.
