Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday underscored the need to overhaul outdated government policies that slow down transactions and burden ordinary Filipinos, as he renewed his push for digitalization and ease of doing business.
According to Philippines News Agency, in his latest vlog titled 'Polisiya (Policy),' Marcos said policies should ultimately make life easier for citizens, not create unnecessary hardship. He emphasized the importance of simplifying life for Filipinos by ensuring that government systems provide comfort rather than headaches.
Marcos outlined what he described as the hallmarks of good public policy: clear objectives, ease of implementation, enforceability, and direct benefit to the public. He stated that policies should guide behavior and contribute to better governance outcomes.
The President cited examples from other countries, including stricter discipline policies, health-related regulations, and work-life balance measures, noting how these have improved productivity and public welfare abroad. However, Marcos stressed the urgency for the Philippines to address 'outdated policies' that hinder government services, pointing to long queues, redundant paperwork, and requirements that force citizens to appear physically for transactions that can be done digitally.
As part of the solution, Marcos highlighted the rollout of the eGov app and digital licenses, particularly at the Land Transportation Office, to reduce red tape and corruption. He also mentioned commuter-friendly measures such as free and fast Wi-Fi in buses and trains, discounted fares for students and persons with disabilities, and the government's zero-billing policy to expand healthcare coverage for the middle class.
Marcos, who is recovering from a recent health setback, reported that his condition is improving and assured the public of his continued focus on governance reforms. He encouraged public participation in proposing reforms that can help address everyday problems, stating that 'policies are culture written as law.'
