A lack of transparency results in distrust and a deep sense of insecurity.
— 14th Dalai Lama Jetsun Jamphel Ngawang Lobsang Yeshe Tenzin Gyatso
IN WHAT CAN be said as truth and reality, Public Works Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon highlighted the importance of transparency in government transactions even as he committed to utilize modern technology in the fight against corruption and systemic problem in overhauling various agencies of government, particularly the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Putting this in simpler words, Dizon stressed that “systemic problems require systemic solutions” while emphasizing that long-standing problems in governance stem from lack of transparency in several aspects that focus most especially in procurement and implementation and budget appropriation and allocation.
The truth is that solutions to these problems are technology, transparency, accountability and active private sector engagement.
‘[S]ystemic problems require systemic solutions while emphasizing that long-standing problems in governance stem from lack of transparency in several aspects that focus most especially in procurement and implementation and budget appropriation and allocation.’
IT’S ESSENTIAL
Quoting from the secretary, “transparency is essential; when things are done in secret, with only a few people involved, accountability disappears.”
In this, blockchain technology can make a difference by making government documents publicly accessible, transparent, and immutable.
This can likewise be considered as a key tool for positive and effective reforms.
The new technology was clearly explained by Blockchain Council of the Philippines propenentDonald Patrick Lim and Integra Negra’s Jonathan Bocaling at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay media forum hosted by our dear colleague and veteran lady journalist Marichu Villanueva.
According to Bocaling, blockchain technology can curb widespread corruption in government.
He cited that “government systems are still scattered and disconnected (with) each agency running its own database” and thus resulting with gaps, overlaps and loopholes. He described the situation: “Billions of pesos move through these systems every day, but not all of them can be monitored and tracked from end to end.”
By using blockchain, one source of truth can be created and everyone can see data and information while no one can change or manipulate secretly. With this technology, data that is entered becomes permanent and verifiable, meaning that trustwill no longer depend on people but on proof.
This is the kind of system our government, businesses and people deserve. But to make this work, however, the Philippines must establish its own national digital brain that can securely connect all major government systems under one framework.
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