MANILA, Philippines July 28 – President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said “the gates of Malacañang will be open” to those who have valid reasons to complain about graft and corruption under his administration.
During his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, the President also discussed plans to install the 8888 Help Line to address citizens’ concerns
In line with his campaign promise to eliminate red tape, PRRD has directed all agencies of the government to reduce to a maximum of three days the processing time in issuing permits and licenses in various government agencies.
The President’s order binds the executive branch, from the Office of the President down to the last barangay official. He stressed the need to streamline and re-engineer government efforts in development and security to ensure that resources of the government are spent wisely and the outcomes are felt on the ground.
To address citizens’ clamor for the timely issuance of Philippine passports, the government shall work towards the amendment of the 1996 Passport Law to lengthen the validity of the passports from five to 10 years, he added.
PRRD ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs to streamline the documentary requirements for passport applications and open additional Consular Offices in strategic locations to decongest Metro Manila sites and avoid long queues that have caused hardship and suffering to applicants.
“I am addressing all of the Cabinet members to make use of the computer. I do not want to see people lining up under the heat of the sun. I do not want people lining up under the rain,” he said.
As for driver’s licenses, their effectivity will be extended from the current three-year period to five years. To reduce queuing time at train ticketing stations, ticket outlets will be introduced in malls, stalls, and stores. (PND)
