Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS:
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 3475

Introduced by Representative EDUARDO R. RAMA Jr.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

As the world continues to modernize, the need to undergo a digital transformation is a
necessity, in order to create a more efficient, transparent, and cost-effective delivery of basic services.
To build for the future, the Philippine government must embrace this opportunity to innovate by
instirutionalizing the transition of the government to e-Governance in the digital age. This
transformation is fundamental and timely as the recent pandemic forced government programs and
services to shut down of significantly slow down, which revealed the need to execute a new policy
direction that is more responsive to the needs and expectations of citizens in an ever-changing world.

Ultimately, this bill seeks to: (1) establish an integrated and interconnected resource sharing
and communications network, (2) promote the use of the internet and emerging technologies within
and across government agencies, and (3) provide enhanced access to government information and
services in a manner consistent with laws. This measure will enable the administration to provide fast,
transparent, and efficient services; therefore, improving the quality of civic experiences of the Filipino
people. The passage of this bill guarantees improved access to government services, and strengthens
the principal mandate of addressing the critical needs of the Filipino people.

In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

DUARDO R. RAMA JR.
2 District, City of Cebu


COVA HRON

10

12
13

Republic of the Philippines

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

3475

HOUSE BILL NO.

Introduced by Representative EDUARDO R. RAMA Jr.

AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING THE TRANSITION OF THE GOVERNMENT TO E-
GOVERNANCE IN THE DIGITAL AGE, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:
Section 1, Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "E-Governance Act of 2025.

Sec. 2. Declaration of policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to recognize the
‘ital role of communication and information in nation-building and the necessity of harnessing the
power of information and communications technology in pursuit of national development and
progress. The State hereby adopts a policy to create, foster, and sustain a digitally empowered and
integrated government that provides responsive and transparent online citizen-centered services for a

globally competitive Filipino nation.
In pursuit of this policy, this Act shall have the following purposes:

a. Provide effective leadership of government efforts to develop and promote clectronic government

services and processes by providing guidance to the Department of Information and Communications


1

CHOY FHRON

40

12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28

30
st
32

‘Technology in accordance with, its mandate;
b. Promote use of the internet, intranet, and other information and communications technologies to

provide increased opportunities for citizen participation in government;
¢. Promote inter-agency collaboration in providing electronic government services, where this
collaboration would improve the service to citizens by integrating related functions, and in the use of
internal electronic government processes, where this collaboration would improve the efficiency and
effectiveness of the processes;

d. Improve the ability of the government to achieve agency missions and program performance goals;

¢. Promote the use of the internet, intranet, and emerging technologies within and across government

agencies to provide citizen-cencric government information and services;
£. Reduce costs and burdens for businesses and other goverment entities;

g Promote better informed and datedriven decision making by policy makers, taking into

consideration data analytics results;
h, Promote access to high quality government information and services across multiple channels;
i, Make the national and local governments more transparent and accountable;

j. Transform agency operations by utilizing, where appropriate, best practices from public and private

sector organizations, both local and international; and

k. Provide enhanced access to government information and services in a manner consistent with laws
regarding protection of personal privacy, national security, records retention, access for persons with

disabilities, and other relevant iaws.

Sec. 3. Coverage. - This Act shall apply to all government offices and agencies

including local government units and government-owned or -controlled corporations.


oN AO RWN

"1
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
a
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31

Sec. 4. Definition of terms. ~As used in this Act, the following terms are defined

as follows:

a. "E-Governance" - refers to use of information and communications technology by the
government and the public to enhance the access to and delivery of government services to bring

about efficient, responsive, ethical, accountable and transparent government service;

b. "Workflow" - refers to the sequence of industrial, administrative, or other processes through which

a piece of work passes from initiation to completion;

c. “Intranet - refers to a secure and private enterprise network that shares data or application

resources via Internet Protocol; and

d. "Internet" - refers to a secure and public enterprise network that shares data or application

resources via Internet Protocol.

€. "ICT assets" - refers any data, device, equipment, infrastructure, system, or component thereof,
or property, owned or possessed by the DICT in accordance with its mandate, utilized to ensure or
support the proper and efficient operation and implementation of ICT-related programs and delivery

of ICT services.

£. “ICT plan" - refers to the sum or set of goals, measures, strategies, agenda, and programs for the

implementation of ICT programs and projects and the use of information and communications

technology, including digital platforms, co deliver public services or otherwise perform governmental

fanctions.
Chapter 1
Role of the Government

Sec. 5. Responsibilities of the heads of government agencies. - The head of each agency, office,
and instrumentality of the national and local government shall be responsible for:


COrYHZ HARON

10
"
12
13
44
15
16
7
18
19
20
2
22
23
24

26
2
28
29

SD)
32

2. Complying with the requirements of this Act, including related standards for all ICT infrastructure,
systems, equipment, designs, and all other technology, which shall be promulgated by the Department

of Information and Communications ‘Technology;

b. Complying with the standards and protocols for cybersecurity, resiliency, privacy, and
confidentiality, which shall also be promulgated by the Department of Information and

Communications Technology;

. Ensuring that the information technology standards promulgated by the Department of
Information and Communications Technology are communicated promptly and effectively to all

relevant officials within their agency; and

4. Supporting the efforts of the national and local government to develop, maintain, and promore an
integrated Internet-based system of delivering Federal Government information and services to the

public.
‘To these ends:

a, Agencies shall develop performance measures that demonstrate how electronic government enables

progress toward agency objectives, strategic goals, and statutory mandates;

b. In measuring performance, agencies shall rely on existing data collections to the extent practicable.
Areas of performance measurement that agencies should include customer service; agency
productivity; and adoption of innovative information technology, including the appropriate use of

commercial best practices;

c. Agencies shall link their performance goals, as appropriate, to key groups, including citizens,

businesses, and other governments;

4. As appropriate, agencies shall work collectively in linking their performance goals to key groups

and shall use information technology in delivering government information and services to those

groups


4
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

9
10
4
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
3t
32

Sec. 6. Role of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). -
‘The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) shall, in addition to its
mandates and functions under Republic Act No. 10844:

a, Harmonize and coordinate ail nadonai ICT plans and inivatives to ensure knowiedge, informacion
and resource-sharing, database-building, and agency networking linkages among government agencies,

consistent with E-Government objectives in particular, and national objectives in general;

b, Ensure the development and protection of integrated government ICT infrastructures and designs,
taking into consideration the Inventory of existing manpower, plans, programs, software, hardware,

and installed systems;

c. Assist and provide technical expertise 10 government agencies in the development of guidelines in

the enforcement and administration of laws, standards, rules, and regulations governing ICT;

d. Assess, initiate, review and support ICT research and development programs of the government

and

. Prescribe, in accordance with applicable civil service laws and rules, the creation of ICT-rclated
goverment positions and corresponding compensation rates aligned with the personnel needs of a
digitalized government, as well as the qualifications, standards, duties, and functions essential ro the

effective development and operation of government ICT infrastructures and systems

Sec. 7. DICT to act as the primary implementing body. -The DICT shall be the primary

implementing body and principal administrator of this Act. All ICT projects in the Philippines shail
be done in accordance with the National ICT Development Agenda. For this purpose, the DICT shall
establish measures to implement policies under this Act and ensure that all ICT’ projects in the
Philippines, whether national or local, are harmonized with the overall ICT plans and in compliance

with applicable standards. Accordingly, the DiCT shail be responsible for the following:

a. Adopting a national policy and process that would facilitate the entry and adoption of technologies
consistent with the goals of this Act;


b. Ensuring the quality, security, reliabi

,, and interoperability of ail ICT infrastructure and services

in accordance with international or industrial standards, specifications, and best practices;

¢. Tapping into the private sector and entering into partnerships and joint ventures in accordance with

the goals of this Act;

d. Mandate and supervise the adoption of policies and processes to ensure the implementation of this.

Acs

¢. Mandate and supervise the interconnection or interoperability of ICT infrastructure, systems, and

facilities when necessary to achieve the goals of this Act; and

£ Regulate and supervise the operations of ICT infrastructure, systems, and facilities, and in the
exercise of such functions, in accordance with applicable laws and rules, charge reasonable

administrative and operational fees as may be necessary.

Sec. 8. The DICT-Project Management Office. - Within one year from the effectivity of this Act,
the DICT shall establish 2 government-wide Project Management Office, which shall cater to and
address to the portfolio, program, and project management needs of government agencies, with the
end goal of ensuring that ICT projects across the government are managed with efficiency and agility
following international best practices and standards, w deliver successful projects, with the goal of

delivering lasting benefits and value through new or enhanced ICT services.

‘The DICT shall provide guidelines on the operation of the PMO and as to the qualifications of
personnel under the PMO, who shail, at the minimum obtain internationally recognized certifications
and a required number of units on Project Management, Program Management, IT Service
Management I'TIL, The Open Group Enterprise Architecture, Risk Management, and other similar
fields or specializations. For this purpose, the ICT Academy shall ensure that courses, multimodal

raining, and certifications to deveiop this human resource are regularly offered,

Sec. 9. Inctusivity. - In accordance with the provisions of this Act on the Philippine CitizenConnect
Program, when promulgating policies and implementing programs regarding the provision of


©aranneen

10
"1
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
2
22
23
24
25
26
2
28
29
30
a

government information and services over the internet and other platforms ot channels, agency heads
shall consider the impact on persons without access to such platforms or channels, and shall, to the
extent practicable, ensure that the availability of government information and services has not been
‘or will not be diminished for individuals and entities who lack access to the internet; and pursue
alternate modes of delivery that make government information and services more accessible 10

individuals who do not own computers or lack access to the internet or other platforms and channels.

Chapter 2
‘The Integrated Government Neework

Sec. 10. Establishment of the Integrated Government Network. - The DICT shall establish an
integrated, interconnected, and interoperable internal government network, to be known as the
“Integrated Government Network" (IGN), which shall act as the primary means for the sharing and
communication of resources, information, and data through and on digital and electronic platforms
across all of the government. The IGN shall also act as the government's primary and focal

information management tool and communications network

Sec. 11. Scope and coverage of the IGN - The IGN shall cover all branches, agencies,
instrumentalities, and offices of the national and local government, including government-owned and

controlled corporations.

Sec. 12, Interconnectivity and interoperability of the IGN to existing government networks.
‘All internal necworks already established and maintained by any government agency, office, of
instrumentality, including local governments, shall upon the effectivity of this Act, enact measures to

establish interconnection co and interoperability with the IGN.

Sec. 13. Internal Records Management Information System. - The government shall establish,
maintain, and support a records management system for the systematic, efficient, and cost-effective
management of all government and public documents and records. All paper-based documents and
records shall be digitized, migrated to, and managed through this system.


en aaron

"
12
43
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
2
22
23
24
25

27
28

30
31
32

‘The government shall establish a framework to allow efficient interoperability among agencies, offices,
and instrumentalities of the national and local government when using electronic signatures, including

processing of digital signatures.

Sec. 14. intemal Email Network. -The government shail establish and maintain an internal email
and communications network, to be known as "GovMail,"for internal and intra-government
communications, information dissemination and sharing, coordination, feedback, and other similar
and related purposes. It shall be structured in a manner that ensures that the use and operation of such

mail nctwork shall be accessible, safe, interactive, interconnected, and Interuperabic.

Sec. 15, Migration, digitization, and automation of paper-based workflows. - All paper-based
government and bureaucratic workflows involving internal communications, information
dissemination and sharing, coordination, feedback, and other similar and related purposes shall be

migrated, digitized, and, as far as practicable, automated.

Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act, communication, information dissemination and sharing,
coordination, and feedback which deals with critical and sensitive information as may be determined
by the head of the agency shall be allowed to be conducted through traditional and non-digital means
as may be deemed appropriate for the purpose by the head of the agency.

Chapter 3
‘The Philippine Information Database

Sec. 16, The Philippine Individual Information Database and Civil Registration System. - The
government shail establish, maintain, and support an Individual information database which shall act
as a national repository and directory of information and data on citizens of the Philippines, whether
residing in the Philippines or not, and foreign nationals who enter the Philippines through legal

channels.

Information and data to be stored on the database shall include names, addresses, whether permanent
or temporary, national Identification numbers, dates and places of birth, citizenship, civil status,

biometric data and information, and other associated information: provided, that the acquisition and


SONOnD RN OH

"1
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
2
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
2g
30
31

storage of data and information on the database shall not in any way violate any applicable domestic

and international laws and rules on privacy of data and information.

Sec. 17. Access to and use of the database. - ‘The database shall be accessible, through digital
platforms such as intranet and internet, co all agencies, offices, and instramentalities of the
government for purposes consistent with legitimate and valid public purposes, subject to the Data
Privacy Act (Republic Act 10173)

All government agencies, offices, and instrumentalities with access to the database shail maintain a
record of all the instances when, where, and how such agency, office, or instrumentality, or its duly
authorized representatives, had accessed any information or data stored on the database and the
purposes of such access, including the identity of the actual person or persons gaining access to the
said database.

Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act, access to and use of the resources, information, and data
on the database shall be in accordance with all relevant domestic and international laws, rules, and
regulations on daca and information privacy and the pertinent ruies on confidentiality of government

information.

Sec. 18. Integration with the Philippine Identification System. - The current Philippine
Identification System, including its existing and planned mechanisms for collecting, storing, and
accessing data and information, shall be fully integrated with the database, in accordance with existing

laws, rules, and regulations

Sec. 19. Automatic and real time updating of information. - The government shail establish and
maintain measures to ensure that information stored on the database shall automatically and in real
time be updated across the entire government network, regardless of when and where the change in
such data o information was first made or submitted, with the end view that an update made at any
access point in the government network shall automatically be reflected and accessible across all access

points in real time,

10


eur ar eken

"1

12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
2

22
23
24
25
26
2
28
29
30
3t

Sec. 20. Creation of data exchange protocols. —The DICT shall establish a data exchange protocol
between and among agencies and the private sector which shall ensure legitimacy of access to data,
security of information, and compliance with applicable domestic and international laws on data

privacy.

Chapter 4
‘The Public Service Directory

Sec, 21. The Public Service Directory. - The government shall establish, maintain, and support a
directory, to be known as the "Philippine Public Service Directory," of all civil and public officials and
servants throughout the country, including names, titles, telephone and facsimile numbers,
departmental names, office locations, and e-mail addresses. Any changes to the information stored on
and accessed through the directory shall be reflected in real time.

Sec. 22. Access to and use of the directory. - The directory shall be accessible, through digital
platforms such as intranet and internet, to all citizens of the Philippines and forcign nationals who
have entered the Philippines through iegitimare channels for legitimate and valid purposes consistent
with civil service rules and the tight of the public to information.

‘Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act, access to and use of the resources,
information, and data on the directory shall be in accordance with ali relevant laws, rules, and
regulations on data and information privacy and the pertinent rules on confidentiality of government

information.

Sec. 23. Establishment of online public service portal for individuals and business. -In
accordance with the policy of the government to maintain and promote an integrated intemet-based
system of providing the public with access to government information and services, the government,
through the DICT, shall establish, maintain, and continuously update a portal which shall serve as a
helpdesk where citizens can request for information and assistance on government frontline services,

service procedures, and report commendations, appreciation, complaints, and feedback.

"i


‘The online portal shall also serve as centralized contact point where all communications from the
public through such portal may be routed, logged, responded to, and ultimately distributed to the

different government agencies for proper handling and resolution, and follow through if necessary.

Sec. 24. Access to and use of the online public service porta! - The portal shail be accessibic,
through digital platforms such as the intranet and internet, to citizens of the Philippines, foreign
nationals who have entered the Philippines through legitimate channels, and businesses organized and
existing or operating under the laws and rules of the Philippines for purposes consistent with the

efficient delivery of public services.

‘Novwithstanding the provisions of this Act, access to and use of the resources, information, and data
through the portal shall be in accordance with all rclevant laws, rules, and regulations on data and

information privacy and the pertinent rules on confidentiality of government informacion.

Sec. 25. Government frontline services through the portal. - All government agencies, offices, and
instrumentalities which provide frontline services, as defined under Republic Act No. 9485, as
amended, shali establish and maintain measures to ensure that such services are accessible and capable

of delivery to the public through the portal.

All offices and agencies which provide frontline services are hereby mandated to regularly undertake
time and motion studies, undergo evaluation and improvement of their transaction systems and
procedures and re-engineer the same if deemed necessary to maximize the use of the portal for

efficiency and transparency

Sec. 26. Access to frontline services. - ‘The following shall be adopted by all government offices
and agencies covered in the immediately preceding paragraph:

a. Acceptance of applications and request - All officers or employees shall accept written applications,

requests, and/or documents being submitted by ciients of the office or agencies through the poral.

12


ON OT RON

4
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
2
22
23
24
25

27
28
29
30

The responsible officer or employee shali acknowiedge reccipt of such application and/or request by

writing or printing clearly thereon, through the portal, his/her name, the unit where he/she is

connected with, and the time and date of receipt.

‘The receiving officer or employee shail perform a preliminary assessment of the request so as to

promote a mote expeditious action on requests.

b. Action of offices. -All applications and/or requests submitted through the portal shall be acted
upon by the assigned officer or employee during the period stated in the Citizen's Charter which shall
not be longer than five working days in the case of simple transactions and ten (10) working days in
the case of complex transactions from the date the request or application was received. Depending on
the nature of the frontline services requested or the mandate of the office or agency under unusual
circumstances, the maximum time prescribed above may be extended. For the extension due to nacure
of frontline services or the mandate of the office or agency concerned the period for the delivery of
frontline services shall be indicated in the Citizen's Charter. The office or agency concerned shall
notify the requesting party in writing of the reason for the extension and the final date of release for

the extension and the finai date of reicase of the frontline service/s requested.

No application or request shall be returned to the client without appropriate action, In case an
application or request is disapproved, the officer or employee who rendered the decision shall send a
formal notice to the client within five working days from the receipe of the request and/or application,
stating therein the reason for the disapproval including a list of specific requirement/s which the client
failed to submit.

c. Denial of request for access to government service. - Any denial of request for access to government
service shall be fully explained in writing and through the portal, stating the name of the person making.
the denial and the grounds upon which such denial is based. Any denial of request is deemed to have
been made with the permission or clearance from the highest authority having jurisdiction over the

government office or agency concerned.

13


euvonrkan

14
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32

4. Access to progression of frontline service requests through the online portal. - All offices, agencies,
and instrumentalities shall make accessible through the portal the progress of all frontline service

requests in real time.

€. Adoption of working schedules co serve clients through the online portal. - Heads of offices and
agencies which render frontline services shall adopt appropriate working schedules to ensure that all
clients have requested for public services through the portal are attended to and served even during

lunch break and after regular working hours, in accordance with pertinent civil service rules.

£ Identification of public employees. - All employees transacting with the public shall be provided
with an official identification card which should be publicly accessible through the online portal.

Government agencies, offices, and instrumentalities mandated under this Act to provide and deliver
public services through the portal shall not in any way require the person requesting for such public
service to physically go and report to the physical office of such agency, office, or instrumentality
where the purpose of such physical presence may be reasonably accomplished through the online

portal

See. 27. The Government Online Payment System. - In conjunction with the online portals for
the delivery of public services, the government shall establish an internet-based electronic payment
system and facility co enable citizens and businesses w remit payments through digital platforms co
the government agencies to which such payments are due. For this purpose, the government may
‘engage the services of and interconnect with public and private payment systems and facilities, in

accordance with applicable laws and rules.

Sec. 28. The Citizens’ Concerns Center. There is hereby established a Citizens’ Concems Center,
which shall serve as a mechanism where citizens may report their complaints, grievances, and concerns
on acts of red tape, as defined under Republic Act No, 9485 and other relevant laws, and/or
corruption or misconduct on the part of any government agency, government-owned or controlied
corporation, government financial institution, and other instrumentalities of the government or any

of its officers, officials, or employees.

14


eyYrHGT RON

"1
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
3
32

‘The Center shall be under the direction and supervision of the Office of the Cabinet Secretary, in

coordination with the DILG and representatives from the local government units.

Sec. 30, Integration with the internal government network and database. - The Center, including
its sub-operations units, and its operations shall be fully integrated with the internal government

network and database for real time updating of data and information,

Sec. 31. Minimum operating standards. - The Center, including its sub-operational units, shall have

the following minimum operating standards:

a. Communications channels. - The Center shall provide communications channels which inchide but
are not limited to the following:

1. Telephone;

2. Short message service (SMS) or text message service;

3. Electronic mail (email);

4. Social media; or

5. Other emerging communications media which ean reasonably be used to full

the purposes of the

Center.

b. Operating hours. -The Center shall operate, through any of its communications channels, ewenty-
four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week. Including national holidays and days in which work is
suspended for whatever reason, for which purpose the Center may establish effective measures and

hire the necessary personnel,

c. Process flow. - A citizen's concern received through any of the communications channels shall
immediately be encoded onto the Philippine Information Database and referred, directly or indirectly,
in real time, to the concerned agency, office, or instrumentality for appropriate action through the
internal government network. The complainant shall be given advice or feedback on the status of the

concern until its resolution;

4d. Period to take action, - A citizen's concer lodged and received through any of the communication

channels shall have a concrete and specific action within seventy-two (72) hours from reccipt by the

15


Seaernxaannon

"1
12

13
14
15
16

17
18
19
20
21
22

23
24
25
26

2
28
29

proper government agency or instrumentality. For purposes of this provision, the period provided
shall exclude such time outside the normal office hours of the agency or office concemed,

Sec, 32, Cooperation of government agencies and local government units. - To ensure that the
pubiic is served efficiently and expeditiously in accordance with the objectives of this Act, al national
government agencies, offices, and instrumentalities, government-owned and controlled corporations,
‘government financial institutions, as well as the local government units, are enjoined to cooperate and
coordinate with the Office of the Cabinet Secretary and each other to ensure prompt action on the

concems received through the communications channels of the Center.

Chapter 6

The Philippine CitizenConnect Program
Sec. 33. The Philippine CitizenConnect Program. - The government shall establish a program, to
be known as the "Philippine CitizenConnect," to assist and help the public to who does not have

access to, or need help with using computers, the internet, and other analogous means to transact with

and request the delivery of public services from the government in their localities.

Sec. 34. Free access to the internet for the public. - Pursuant to Republic Act No. 10929 or the
Free Internet Access in Public Places Act, the government, through the DICT, shall establish a
program that will provide free access to internet service in public places, with particular focus on
unserved or underserved areas, throughout the country, to enable access to the online portals, promote
knowledge-building among citizens, and enable them to participate and compete in the evolving

information and communication age.

Sec. 35. Provision and maintenance ofintemet-capable devices in all barangay centers. - All
barangay centers in the country shall provide and maintain internet- capable devices such as but not
limited to computers and tablets for the purpose of enabling efficient and timely access to government

services.

Sec. 36. Staffing requirement for internet access. - Ail barangay centers shail ensure that there will
be government staff present to help the public access the government portal and perform online

transactions with government agencies, offices, and instrumentalities.

16


N

oare

10
"1
12

13
4
15
16
7
18

19
20

2
22
23
24
25

26

27

Chapter 7
‘The Government Websites and E-Bulletin Boards

Sec. 37. The Government E-Bulletin Board. - The government and all its agencies, offices, and
insteamentaities, including local governments, shall cach establish and maintain a website and an e-

bulletin board for the purposes of information sharing and dissemination, which shall be structured

and maintained to ensure accessibility and security.

Sec. 38. Information dissemination through the website and board. - All government offices,
agencies, and instrumentalities which are mandated by the laws or rules to publish or otherwise
disseminate notices, documents, or other information intended for public consumption and
information shall, in addition to the traditional modes therefor, publish such notices, documents, ot

other information on the website and e-bulletin board.

Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act and other relevant laws, publication of notices, documents,
or any other information on the website and e-bulletin board shali be construed as sufficient notice to
the public for purposes of compliance with laws and rules requiring publication; provided, that such
website or e-bulletin board is accessible at such point in time where accessibility is claimed. For
purposes of this provision, the start of publication shall be the date on which the notice, document,

‘or information was first uploaded and made accessible to the public.

Sec. 39. Minimum standards for government websites and information portals. 15 - The

following shall be the minimum standards for government websites and information portals:

a. Ic shall include direct and easily identifiabie links to (@) description of the mission, starutory
authority, and the organizational structure of the agency; and (il) commonly asked questions
and the corresponding answers, and other common matters of public concem; and

b. Ie shall include direct and easily identifiable links to the relevant and applicable portals for the
delivery of public services.

7


Nouaroe

10
"1

12
13
14
15

16
17

18
49

a

23
24
25
26
27
28

Chapter 8
Security and Privacy

Sec. 40. Data and Information security- All resources, information, or data stored on or transmitted
through the IGN and ali necworks interconnected to and 31 interoperable with it, the Philippine
Information Database, the Public Service Directory, 32 the portals, and websites shall be kept secure
and free from interference or unauthorized access that can hamper or otherwise compromise the

integrity of the information and communication technology assets.

Access to and use of the resources, information, and data on the IGN shall be limited to the
government and its duly authorized officers and agents, in accordance with all relevant laws, rules, and
regulations on data and information privacy and the pertinent rules on confidentiality of government

information.

Any person who shali knowingly commit an act which results to the compromise of the security and
integrity of the IGN and all networks interconnected to and interoperable with it to the detriment of
the government and the public shall incur criminal liability in accordance with the provisions of

applicable and/or relevant penal laws.

See. 41. Responsibility of the national and local government - Ali agencies, offices, and

instrumentalities of the national and local government under this Act shall be responsible for:

a. Providing information security protections commensurate with the risk and magnitude of the

harm resulting from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or

destruction of information collected or maintained by or on behalf of the agency; and
information systems used or operated by an agency or by a contractor of an agency of other
organization on behalf of an agency;

b. Decermining the levels of information security appropriate to protect such information and
information systems and implementing the same;

¢. Periodically testing and evaluating information security controls and techniques to ensure that
they are effectively implemented;

d. Complying with the requirements of pertinent laws on information security and privacy,

related policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines, including information security

18


on on

10
1"

12
13

14

15

16
7
18
19
20
24
22

23
24
25

standards promulgated by the Department of Information and Communications Technology;
and information security standards and guidelines for national security systems issued in
accordance with law and as directed by the President; and

. Ensuring that information security management processes are integrated with agency strategic

and operational planning processes.
Chapter 9
Participation of the Private Sector

Sec. 42. Government cooperation with the private sector. - Nothing in this Act shall prevent the
government, both national and local, from entering into contracts, agreements, or partnerships with
the private sector to provide various resources, assets, and services in order to comply or enhance

compliance with the provisions of this Act.

Any and all contracts or agreements with the private sector in the context of this Act shali be subject

to the laws and rules on public accountability and transparency and good governance.
Chapter 10
‘The Philippine Infostructure Management Corporation

Sec. 43. The Philippine Infostructure Management Corporation. - For the purpose of ensuring
proper and efficient operations and management of the ICT assets of the DICT, and a faster
implementation of infrastructure programs selated (© connectivity, data center and cloud
infrastructure, there is hereby established a body corporate to be known as Philippine Infostructure
‘Management Corporation (PIMC), which shall be an attached agency to the DICT. The legal existence
of the DIC shall be for a period of 50 years from the date of the approval of this Act. The PIMC shall

be subject to the rules and regulations as the DICT may impose from time to time.

Sec. 44. Powers and functions. - To carry out its main purpose and in accordance with applicable

laws and rules, the PIMC shall have, in addition to any and all powers granted to a corporation under

the general corporation code, the following functions and powers:

19


eoN1 en kwonN

4
12
13
14
15
16
7
18

19
20

2
22
23
24
ra
26
27
28
29
30
31

Pian and implement infrastructure programs such as but not limited to the National
Broadband Plan, Free WiFi for All, and expansion of the National Government Data Centers
and Government Cloud;

Manage ICT assets of the DICT;

Prescribe, repeal, and alter its own by-laws;

Determine its operating policies, and to issue such rules and regulations as may be necessary
to achieve its main purpose;

Adopt, alter and use a corporate seal;

Acquire and own real and personal property, and to sell, mortgage or otherwise dispose of the
same;

Sue and be sued, enter into contracts, and borrow money from both local and foreign sources;
provided, that such loans shall be incurred only upon favorable recommendation of the DICT
and approval by the Presidenc of the Philippines;

Hold, own, purchase, acquire, sell or otherwise invest, or reinvest in stocks, bonds or other
securities capable of giving the PIMC a reasonably assured income sufficient to support its
activities; and

Provide ICT counseling and technical services to government and private entities; provided,

that for this purpose, the PIMC may contract the services of private consultants.

Sec. 45, Board of Trustees. —The corporate powers and functions of the PIMC shall be vested in

and exercised by a Board of Trustees th

a

¢ shall be composed of the following:

“The Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, as the ex
officio Chairman and Chief Fxecutive Officer;

‘The Undersecretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, as
the ee officio Executive Vice Chairman;

‘The Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Con

nission, or his/her duly
designated undersecretary, as ex oficio member;
‘the Undersecretary of the Deparument of Budget and Mauement, or his/her duly
designated undersecretary, as ex ofcio member;
‘One (1) representative from the private sector from the Information Technology and Business

Process Outsourcing Industry;

‘One (1) representative from the privare sector from the Telecommunications Industry; and

20


©COVFEHHRON

11
12
13
14
15
16
7
18
19

2
22
23
24
25
26

27
28

g One (1) representative from the local government units.

The representatives from the private sector and the local government units shall be appointed by the
President. The representatives from the private sector shall be appointed only upon a favorable

ya on GOCCs. The representa

recommendation from the DICT and the Government Comun
from the private sector shall be persons of accepted integrity, probity, and intellect, at least thirty-five
in the field of ICT, and with a

minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience in the field of ICT. The representative from the

years of age, possessed of demonstrated administrative skill and abi

local government units shail be appointed only upon a favorable recommendation from the DICT,

the GCG, and the Department of Interior and Local Government.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation shall execute and administer the policies and
resolutions approved by the Board of Trustees, prepare its agenda, and direct and supervise the
‘operations and management of the Corporation. He shall have direct control and supervision of the
business of the PIMC in all matters which are not by this Act or by the by-laws of the Bank specifically
reserved to be done by the Board of Trustees. He shall, subject to the approval of the Board in case
of approval of appointments to managerial positions and above, and the confirmation of the Board
in appointments to below that of manager level, appoint the personnel of the Corporation, remove,
suspend or otherwise discipline them for cause, and prescribe their duties and qualifications, in
service laws, rules and regulations, to the end that only competent and

accordance with existing civ

qualified personnel may be employed.
All members of the Board shall serve for a term of seven years.

‘The Chairman and the members of the Board shall act as the heads of such operating departments as
may be set up by the Board. The Chairman shall have authority, exercisabie ar his discretion, to
determine from time to time the organizational divisions to be headed by each member serving full
time and to make the corresponding shifts in designations pursuant thereto. The compensation of the
Chairman and the members of the Board of Trustees shall be in accordance with applicable laws and

rules on compensation in the civil service.

‘The Chairman of the Board shall be assisted by an Executive Vice-Chairman and one or more Vice-

Chairmen who shall be chosen and may be removed by the Board of Trustees. The salarics of the

2


N

oane

10
"1
12
13

14
15
16
17
18
19
20
2
22

23
24

25
26
oad
28
29

Vice-Ciairmen shall be fixed by the Board of Trustees with the approval of the President of the
Philippines,

Sec. 46. Authorized capital stock. - The PIMC shall have an authorized capital stock of Five Billion
pesos (PHP 5,000,000,000.00), divided into Five Million (5,000,000) shares of commen stock with a
par valuc of One Thousand Philippine Pesos (PHP 1,000.00) per share, which shall be fully subscribed

by the government.

OF the total capital subscribed by the government. One Billion Philippine Pesos (PHP
of this Act,
and One Billion Philippine Pesos (PHP 1,000,000,000.00) every year thereafter for four (4) years for
which purpose the amount of One Billion Philippine Pesos (PHP 1,000,000,000.00) is hereby

1,000,000,000.00) shall be paid by the Government within one year from the effec

appropriated upon the effccivity of ihis Act, and One Billion Philippine Pesos (PLP
1,000,000,000.00) every year for the next four (4) years thereafter, out of the funds in the National

“Treasury not otherwise appropriated for the purpose.

Sec. 47. Personnel cost of administration. — The Board of Trustees shall provide for an
organization and staff of officers and employees necessary to carry out the functions of the PIMC, fix
their compensation, and appoint and remove such officers and employees for cause, The PIMC
's shall be subject to the rules and regulations issued by the Civil Service

officers and employ
Commission but shail not fail under the Saiary Standardization Law. The Board of Trustees shail
recommend to the Civil Service Commission rules and regulations for the recruitment, appointment,
compensation, administration, conduct, promotion, and removal of all PIMC officers and employees
under a strict merit system and prepare and conduct examinations under the supervision of said

Commission.

“The administrative expenses of the PIMC during any single fiscal year shall not in any case exceed five

percent (5%) of its total assets.

Sec. 48. Legal Counsel, — The Secretary of justice sbali be ecoficio iegal adviser of the PIMC. Any
provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding, the PIMC shall have Its own Legal Department, the
chief and members of which shall be appointed by the Board of Trustees. ‘The composition, budget
and operating expenses of the Office of the Legal Counsel and the salaries and traveling expenses of
its officers and employees shall be fixed by the Board of Trustees and paid by the PIMC.

22


1
2
3

eryraas

©

"1
12

13

14

15
16
17

Sec. 49. Removal of members, — The President of the Philippines may, at any time, remove the
Chairman or any member of the Board appointed by him for, in addition to any and all recognized

causes for termination under applicable civil service laws and rules, any of the following causes:

of discretion, infidelity in the conduct of fiduciary relations, or

2, Miymanayement, grave abs
gross neglect in the performance of duties;

b. Dishonesty, corruption, or any act involving moral turpitude;

c. Any act or performance tending to prejudice of impair the substantial rights of the government

and the corporation's stockholders.

‘The Chairman or member may, in any of the above cases, be civilly liable for any damage that may
have been suffered by the corporation.

Sec.50.Timeline of organization of the PIMC. —The PIMC shali be instiruted and organized
within one (1) year from effectivity of this Act.

Chapter 11
‘The ICT Academy

Sec. 51. Establishment of the ICT Academy and its purposes. - The DICT shall establish and
develop rules and policies for the operations of an ICT Academy that shall have the following

purposes:

a. To foster and support the strategic goals of the national ICT development agenda through
data collection and globally competitive ICT skills development programs and for other
purpose:

b. To promote the education and training of citizens in ICT skills, for purposes of enhancing the
nation's labor capacity in relation to the most relevant and updated data on local and
international skills supply and demand;

&. Tu promote the development of globally competitive skills and drive an inclusive economic
growth;

d. To promote, foster, and nurture the right of all citizens to quality education in ICT;

. To lead the country in setting standards in the development of ICT curriculum and training;

23


on on

©Carea

10

1
12
13

14
15

16
17
18

19
20
21
22
23

24
25
26

27
28

£ Create and foster partnerships with different persons, entities, and instirutions for purposes
of developing and updating the Academy's resources, its ICT curriculum, modules,
pedagogical approaches; and

g To regularly assess the state of the country in terms of comparative ICT skills and

performance, and suggest responsive policies to address concems;

Sec. 52, Satellite units.The ICT Academy shall have satellite units in particular regions, provinces

‘or municipalities in the country if, upon determination of the DICT, in coordination with the

Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, it
is found to be necessary to ensure broader access to quality ICT trainings and skills development, and

to further enhance the Academy's capability to attain its purposes.

Sec. 53. Access and admission. -The Academy shall be accessible to all citizens regardless of skill,
age, gender, religious belief, economic status, ethnicity, physical disability, political opinion or
affiliation,

The DICT shal institute an admissions process to ensure that citizens shall have equal access to ICT

education and that the broadest base of the citizenry shall have ICT education.

Sec. 54, Finances. - The Academy's operations shall be financially supported by a budget from the
DICT, reasonable fees and dues collected, as well as through donations, in accordance with applicable

laws and rules.

All income collected by the Academy shall be retained and disbursed for the for the benefit of the
students, faculty, trainers, and advisers, to serve the acquisition, construction, and maintenance needs
of the Academy, as well as the proper administration of its programs and, generally, the attainment of
the purposes of the Academy; provided, that such retention and disbursement shall be subjected to

applicable laws and rules on government audit and accountability.

Donations and fees collected shall be held in a fund, to be administered in trast by a Commitee
created by the DICT for such purpose. The fund shall in no case be impaired. Donations received
shall be used only for the purposes for which they were donated,

Sec. 55, Partnerships. - The Academy may form partnerships with different educational institutions

and private entities for purposes of achieving the goals of the Academy. Partnerships may be in the

24


Reno

"
12
13

14
15

16
7
18
19

20

22

23
24

26

form of resource sharing, module and training development, faculty exchange, standards development,
trainings collaboration, and other similar forms. All partnerships to be entered into by the Academy
shall be in accordance with the law, approved by the DICT Secretary, and shall not require the
disbursement of any funds by the Academy or the government.

Chapter 12
Miscellaneous Provisions

Sec. 56. Transitory provisions. - In accordance with the objectives of this Act, the DICT, ia
coordination with relevant government agencies and instrumenualitics, as well as private stakeholders
and civic organizations, shall study, formulate, and implement a master plan for the transition of the

government and its provision of services in the digital age.

For purposes of this Act, until such time that the government shall have completed the transition in
accordance with the objectives of this Act, all government activities covered under this Act shall be

conducted in the manner provided for under existing laws and rales.

The government shall complete the transition in 2 maximum of five (5) years from effectivity of this

Act

atus reports. - All agencies, offices, and instrumentalities of the national and local

Sec. 57. Regular
governments covered under this Act shall submit to the 20 Congress, the President, and to the DICT,

an annual report on the status of implementation of this Act. These reports shall likewise be made

publicly available on and through the e-portals.

Sec. 58. Appropriations and funding. - The amount necessary to cover the initial implementation
of this Act in the national government level shail be charged against the current year’s appropriation
‘of the national government agency, office, or instrumentality concerned. Thereafter, such sums as may
bbe needed for its continued implementation shall be Included In the annual General Appropriations
Act.

‘The amount necessary to implement this Act In the jocai government level shall be charged against

the funds of the local government unit concerned.

2


hon

10
"1

12

Sec. 59. Implementing rules und regulations. - The Department of Information and
Communications Technology, in coordination with relevant offices, agencies, and instramentalities of
the national and local government, shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to properly
and efficiently implement this Act within ninety (90) days from the effectivity of this Act.

Sec. 60. Sepurability clause. - If any provision of this Act shall be declared invalid or

unconstitutional, such declaration shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions of this Act.

Sec. 61. Repealing clause. - All provisions of laws, presidential decrees, letters of instruction and
mas of this Act are

other presidential issuances which are incompatible or inconsistent with the provi

hereby deemed amended ot repealed.

Sec. 62. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect within fifteen (15) days following its publication in

the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.

Approved.

26