E-Governance Act of 2025: What Every Filipino Should Know

(c) PCO

On September 5, 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. signed into law Republic Act No. 12254, also known as the E-Governance Act. This landmark legislation officially sets the Philippines on the path toward a fully digital government, making public services faster, more accessible, and more transparent.

Why the Law Matters

The E-Governance Act recognizes the vital role of technology in governance. It institutionalizes digital transformation across all branches of government—executive, legislative, judicial, constitutional bodies, LGUs, GOCCs, and SUCs. From applying for permits to paying fees, the law aims to eliminate long lines and redundant paperwork by bringing services online.

The Most Important Provisions

Here are the key features of the new law:

1. DICT as the Lead Agency

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is now the central authority for e-governance. It will craft the national strategy, set standards, oversee projects, and ensure interoperability among agencies.

2. National E-Government Master Plan (EGMP)

DICT will publish and regularly update the EGMP, a blueprint for the country’s digital transformation, aligning all agency ICT plans under one direction.

3. Unified Project Management Office

A government-wide project management office will ensure ICT projects are delivered on time, follow best practices, and avoid duplication.

4. One-Stop Service Portals

A Citizen Frontline Delivery Services Platform will integrate services from agencies like PSA, DFA, LTO, BIR, PhilHealth, GSIS, SSS, and Pag-IBIG—making it possible to access multiple services in a single online portal.

5. Mandatory eLGU Systems

Within one year, every city and municipality must establish its own digital service portal or adopt the DICT’s eLGU system, ensuring that even small and remote LGUs go digital.

6. Government Digital Payments

All fees, taxes, and charges can soon be paid online through an official government e-payment gateway, integrated with the Treasury system and supporting mobile wallets, debit, and credit cards.

7. Digital Signatures via PKI

The law mandates the use of the government’s Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), enabling secure digital signatures and paperless approvals—essential for faster, tamper-proof transactions.

8. Integrated HR and Finance Systems

A nationwide Human Capital Management Information System and Integrated Financial Management Information System will harmonize HR and financial processes across agencies.

9. Integrated Government Network (IGN)

This secure backbone network will link all agencies, allowing real-time data sharing and inter-agency communication.

10. Online Public Service Portal

A one-stop government helpdesk and transaction portal, also integrating existing platforms like the 8888 hotline, will provide citizens with easier access to services and feedback channels.

11. Cybersecurity and Privacy-by-Design

Agencies must follow strict security standards, conduct vulnerability tests, and adopt privacy-by-default practices. Critical systems must set up their own CERTs and report to DICT’s National CERT.

12. CIO in Every Agency

All agencies must create a Chief Information Officer (CIO) position to lead digital transformation, manage ICT systems, and ensure compliance with national standards.

13. Accessibility and Inclusion

Services must be accessible to persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and those in remote areas. Alternate channels remain available for people with limited internet access.

14. Funding and Oversight

A dedicated E-Government Interoperability Fund will finance projects. Agencies must submit annual status reports, and a Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on E-Governance will monitor implementation for the first five years.

15. Effectivity and Timelines

The law takes effect 15 days after publication. LGUs have one year to implement eLGUs, while DICT has 180 days to issue implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

What This Means for You

• For citizens: Less queuing, more services online, faster processing times, and the ability to transact securely from anywhere.

• For businesses: Easier permit processing, reduced red tape, and faster inter-agency approvals.

• For LGUs: Stronger support from DICT to digitalize, with nationwide consistency in service delivery.

• For government employees: Clear ICT leadership structures, standardized HR and finance systems, and more training opportunities.

What We’re Watching Next

While the E-Governance Act is already in force, much of its impact will depend on how it is implemented. Here are the key developments to keep an eye on in the coming months:

• Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR): The DICT must issue the IRR within 180 days of the law’s effectivity. These will provide the operational details for agencies and LGUs.

• DICT Roll-out Plan: Watch for the rollout of the Integrated Government Network (IGN), the national Online Public Service Portal, the government e-payment system, and the adoption of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for digital signatures.

• CIO Appointments & Agency Plans: All agencies will appoint their own Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and align their ICT strategies with the E-Government Master Plan (EGMP). This will set the tone for digital transformation in each institution.

ra 12254.pdf

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