Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday underscored the urgent need to accelerate digital transformation in local government units (LGUs), saying it is key to improving public service delivery, enhancing transparency and curbing corruption.
According to Philippines News Agency, speaking at the oath-taking of the Vice Mayors' League of the Philippines (VMLP) national officers in Malaca±ang, Marcos said digital governance would streamline transactions, reduce red tape and limit opportunities for abuse. 'Kung puwede na sa internet gawin, hindi na kailangang bumiyahe ng ilang oras para lang sa permit o dokumento (If it can be done online, there's no need to travel for hours just for a permit or document),' the President said, noting that digital systems minimize discretion and eliminate reliance on fixers.
Marcos said the national government is pushing for the digitalization of frontline and backend services across all levels, with initiatives such as the Electronic LGU (eLGU) system already adopted by over 900 LGUs as of end-2025. The platform allows online access to permits, tax documents, civil registry records and business clearances. He cited gains from digitalization, including improved efficiency in agencies like the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, where most transactions are now done electronically.
He stressed that digital systems also strengthen safeguards in government transactions, ensuring better monitoring of public funds. 'Mas mababantayan natin ang pondo kapag digital, at mas malinaw ang proseso (We can better monitor funds when they are digital, and the process is clearer),' he said.
Despite progress, the President acknowledged uneven digital adoption among LGUs due to funding gaps, limited infrastructure and lack of technical expertise, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). To address this, the national government is expanding internet connectivity, distributing SIM cards with data allocations to schools and remote communities, and offering technical support to LGUs.
The Chief Executive also urged local officials to collaborate with academic institutions and the private sector to build digital capabilities. The push for digital governance comes amid broader reforms to strengthen LGU capacity, including amendments to the Local Government Code, the extension of devolution under Executive Order No. 103 until 2028, and expanded funding support through the Local Government Support Fund.
The President emphasized that digitalization is central to achieving more accountable, responsive and efficient governance. 'If local governments cannot keep up with digitalization, they will be left behind,' Marcos said.
