Arta, PACC ink deal to fight red tape and corruption
THE Anti-red Tape Authority (Arta) and Presidential Anti-corruption Commission (PACC) signed a pact on Wednesday to strengthen the campaign against red tape and corruption in government.
The memorandum of agreement between Arta and PACC aims to boost coordination and cooperation in addressing complaints and reports of violations relating to red tape and corruption.
Under the partnership, Arta and PACC will be endorsing cases to one another if these will fall under their jurisdiction.
Arta will cover all cases relating to public officials or employees found in violation of the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.
PACC shall deal with all the cases involving violations from covered presidential appointees under the
Anti-graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as amended, Republic Act 1379 on the unlawful acquisition of property by a public officer or employee, and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, among others.
Both agencies can also jointly audit or investigate complaints, which are “from a common act or omission, incident or case.”
Arta Director General Jeremiah Belgica said that red tape and corruption are related matters, explaining this is why the agencies joined forces in resolving such concerns.
“If you give it a serious thought, they are connected. Because of red tape, the queues are getting longer, the process slows down, and this gives opportunities for corruption,” the Arta chief said in Filipino.
PACC Chairman Greco Belgica, meanwhile, said this partnership has been anticipated as this is seen to help in seizing corruption in the government.
“This agreement is a big step forward in developing and strengthening the anti-corruption campaign of the President and in achieving the administration’s goal of ensuring transparency and accountability in the government,” he added.
Last week, Arta and other government agencies inked a joint memorandum ordering the local government units (LGUS) to automate their business processing and licensing systems by June 17.
In particular, it directed the LGUS to set up an electronic business one-stop shop (eboss) that can facilitate online submission of business permit applications; digital payment options; and issuance of electronic versions of permits, licenses or clearances.
Arta also recently welcomed the Executive Order 129, which ordered the formation of the Office of the Presidential Advisor on Streamlining of Government Process. The office is headed by former Cabinet Secretary Leoncio “Jun” Evasco Jr.