2 weeks ago
9
BALANGA CITY — The Bataan provincial government, in cooperation with the New Zealand Embassy in Manila, launched here on Wednesday the Bataeño Pass that will digitalize transactions for efficient, conven-ient and accessible public services to make daily life easier in the province.
Gov. Jose Enrique Garcia III said that Bataan has always been a province of innovation and progress, with a community-driven governance.
"Our people, who I proudly describe as hardworking, resilient, and full of ambition, deserve nothing but the best," said Garcia.
"Today, with the launch of the Bataeño Pass, we take a bold step toward digital transformation and smart governance. For too long, our people have endured long lines, repetitive processes, and excessive paperwork just to access even the most basic government services," the governor said.
He noted that a simple request for assistance often requires securing multiple certifications, presenting various IDs, and making several trips to different offices only to encounter delays due to outdated records and manual verification.
Get the latest news
delivered to your inbox
Sign up for The Manila Times newsletters
By signing up with an email address, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Garcia observed that this inefficiency has not only burdened citizens but has also slowed down the deliv-ery of critical government services, leaving many frustrated and underserved. He is confident that if private sector can do it, government should do it even better.
"With the Bataeño Pass, we are eliminating these unnecessary hurdles and streamlining access to gov-ernment services. This system securely stores citizen data, enabling government offices to instantly verify whether an individual is a senior citizen, farmer, fisherfolk, tricycle driver, or indigent," the governor ex-plained.
Garcia said that there will be no more stacks of paperwork, redundant steps, or long waiting times. He sees transactions will be faster and more efficient, ensuring that services reach the right people without delays.
Garcia said that more than just an identification system, the Bataeño Pass serves as a secure access card for various systems that require important citizen's documents and information.
"Whether it's for securing government certifications, health records, or even educational credentials, this digital pass streamlines the way individuals access and manage their personal data," the governor said.
Garcia added that local government units and barangay will significantly benefit from this streamlined system. "Instead of relying on outdated records, officials will have access to a centralized database with accurate information, allowing for more effective governance."
He said that the Bataeño Pass will include a standardized process for issuing certifications and clearanc-es, reducing delays and inconsistencies in government transactions.
"We are also aligning the Bataeño Pass with the National ID System and the eGov platforms of the na-tional government," said Garcia.
"I understand that one of the biggest concerns regarding a digital ID system is privacy and security. That is why we have implemented strict security protocols to ensure that the Bataeño Pass upholds the highest standards of data protection," said Garcia.
He assured that no one will have access to personal information unless explicitly authorized by the indi-vidual.
The governor called on local chief executives, district representatives, partners from the national gov-ernment agencies, and representatives of the private sector to support the project.
Garcia thanked the government of New Zealand for the grant it extended to the provincial government.
New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Catherine Mcintosh greeted her audience in Filipino. "Isang malaking karangalan ang makasama kayo ngayong araw na ito. Sama-sama nating ipagdiriwang ang isang proyekto na sumisimbolo sa ugnayan ng ating mga bansa (It is an honor to be with you today. To-gether, we celebrate a project that symbolizes the relation of two countries)."
