City launches E-Governance Online Payment System
The city government formally launched, Nov. 16, at the City Hall grounds the Baguio In My Pocket (BIMP) E-Governance Online Payment System with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat as guest of honor and speaker.
The project is in collaboration with the BSP, DILG and ITBS Corporation.
E-Governance is broadly defined as the “utilization by government agencies of Information Communication Technology (ICT) and other electronic media that have the ability to transform relations with citizens, businesses, employees and others in the delivery of government service”.
Engr. Felipe Puzon, City Mayor’s Office chief of staff and Management Information Technology Division supervisor, said the BIMP application will cover the payment of business and real property taxes.
Puzon said, however, that the BIMP system’s process and start of implementation will be announced on a later date.
He said that BIMP is in support of the city’s Paleng-QR program, launched August 14, that aims to promote cashless payments on public markets and local transportation and is also in partnership with the BSP and DILG.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the BIMP payment system’s launching is a testament to what his administration envisioned Baguio to be three years ago – transparent, quick, accountable and reliable.
“The (Covid-19) pandemic put a halt to most of our plans, but finally, with much pride, I am pleased to say that we are right on track to creating a smart, green, and sustainable city,” he disclosed.
He pointed out that the system will ultimately deliver efficient government services to the people and drive public trust in government.
In under an hour and in the comfort of their own homes, the Mayor claimed, people will be able to pay their fees and taxes through the digital platform.
“We have entered into the age of innovation as we need to adapt to the fast-paced world of digital transformation. We must always remain vigilant and proactive on how we can become a globally competitive city,” he stressed.
The Mayor added, “all these would not have been possible if not built on the platform of good governance. When people see that there is no room for corruption anymore in services such as this, they are more inclined to support our policies, rules, and projects, and pay their taxes. Trust is the cornerstone of any institution.”
“As we engage in today’s activities, may we be inspired and reminded that we are not working for a small change, we are targeting unprecedented change. We are targeting digital transformation to create a SMART government, a SMART city, and SMART Baguio people,” he added.
Both Puyat and Department of the Interior and Local Government regional director Araceli San Jose lauded the Mayor for continuously spearheading innovations in the Summer Capital and being a vanguard for good governance.
Puyat was also presented the city’s Vision Award for her continuous and unfailing support to the city’s programs since she was still the Department of Tourism Secretary until her current position as BSP Deputy Governor. – Gaby B. Keith
