The Bacolod City Government has launched an electronic kiosk (e-kiosk) system to digitize the processing of building and occupancy permits, aiming to eliminate fixers and speed up transactions.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the initiative is part of the city’s “no face-to-face policy” in government transactions, ensuring efficiency and transparency.
“This is part of the city’s effort to implement a ‘no face-to-face policy’ in government transactions. Not only that. The system also ensures efficiency and transparency,” Gasataya said during the launch at the Government Center on Thursday.
The Office of the Building Official (OBO) e-kiosk system was introduced weeks after former OBO head Isidro Sun Jr. was preventively suspended for alleged misconduct and irregularities in processing permits.
Through the e-kiosk, applicants can register, upload requirements, and track their applications online. Limited in-person steps remain to allow OBO staff to verify official seals on submitted documents.
Permit applicant Mary Jean Abarisco, 52, said the system saves time compared to the long wait she used to experience.
Gasataya was joined by City Administrator Mark Mayo and OBO officer-in-charge Amy Tentia during the launch.