DICT seeks P2.7B budget for e-government push in 2027

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is proposing a P2.7-billion budget for its e-government (eGov) initiatives in 2027. The requested funding is intended to cover cloud hosting, cybersecurity, system integration, and developer compensation. DICT Undersecretary for E-Government David Almirol stated that digitalization does not necessarily have to be expensive, emphasizing that optimization and avoiding redundant processes can lead to cost-effective solutions. Of the proposed P2.7 billion, P800 million is specifically allocated for upgrading and maintaining the government's flagship eGov Super App. The remaining budget will target four key digital pillars, aligning with the eGov Law (Republic Act No 12254), which establishes a separate eGov budget line and opens new funding avenues for the agency. Furthermore, DICT is preparing a transition plan to collaborate with local IT startups and the tech community through initiatives like hackathons to ensure the long-term sustainability of its platforms. DICT acknowledges the need for external support to enhance, strengthen security, and review the architecture of these systems. Recent eGov Hackathon events have seen participants develop practical tools to streamline government transactions, improve inter-agency coordination, and expedite public services. DICT Secretary Henry Aguda highlighted the increasing public reliance on digital channels and the ongoing need for improvement. Currently, the eGov Super App boasts over 61 million downloads and has processed more than 900 million transactions, integrating 1,332 government e-services across 95 modules. These services span various sectors including health, education, employment, travel, tourism, local governance, public safety, financial services, social protection, citizen assistance, and digital identity. The eGov Data Exchange Platform has processed over 950 million transactions as of June 2026, and more than 92 million Digital National IDs have been issued. DICT maintains that efficient and seamless digital services are the best demonstration of responsible management of taxpayer money. Source: GMA News Philippines