QUEZON CITY — Marking a significant progress on streamlining government processes and promoting innovation, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) unveiled its SULONG Transformation Hub and hosted a Water Policy Workshop on 18 November 2024 at the UP Technohub, Quezon City.
The event brought together key government officials, industry leaders from the private sector, and international experts. The ceremonial inauguration provided a platform for delegates who recently participated in an Israel Study Visit, funded by the Israeli government, to initiate the discussion on improving the water sector in the Philippines. The delegates, who are representatives from the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and ARTA, shared valuable insights gained from their exposure to Israel’s innovative approach to water management and technological advancements.
Also in attendance were representatives from the Local Government Units of Las Piñas City, Mandaluyong City, Navotas City, Pasay City, Quezon City, and San Juan City, as well as national government agencies such as the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PMA). Private sector representatives from Manila Water Company, Maynilad Water Services, Inc., and the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), represented by its President Rene D. Almendras, were also present.
Israel Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Ilan Fluss, expressed optimism about future collaborations between the two nations. He cited the history of the Philippines and Israel’s relationship from the second world war and looks forward to more partnerships moving forward.
“When we look at for the future, and when we look at the global economy and the global community, for me, the future of relationship is by working together on creating a better future and addressing the challenges here in the Philippines by using some of the best practices, and innovation is excellent in Israel,” Ambassador Fluss stated. He added, “I think we can share so much, and I think this is the way for us to walk together in the future and this is what I’m trying to do, and I am very happy that we are able to create this partnership that I will continue to grow and nurture… And I’m looking forward for more activities to come.”
“SULONG is more than just a physical space; it’s a mindset, a movement. It’s a commitment to breaking down bureaucratic barriers, streamlining processes, and ultimately, making it easier for businesses and citizens to interact with government,” said ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez. He underscored the significance of the SULONG Transformation Hub as a catalyst for change and highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies and the private sector to achieve a “Bagong Pilipinas.”
The Water Policy Workshop focused on addressing the challenges faced in the water sector, particularly in obtaining permits for pipe-laying and leak repair works. Participants discussed strategies to streamline the permitting process, reduce unnecessary requirements, and improve coordination between government agencies and LGUs. By addressing these issues, ARTA aims to facilitate the development of water infrastructure projects and ensure the sustainable management of water resources.
The SULONG Transformation Hub and the Water Policy Workshop are crucial steps towards realizing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas.” By fostering innovation, streamlining processes, and promoting collaboration, ARTA is committed to creating a more efficient, transparent, and responsive government. (ARTA)
