LT crafts electronic collection scheme

By Susan C. Aro

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Town officials crafted a measure regulating an alternative mode of payment and collection of fees through electronic means which is the emerging trend in transactions deemed convenient e nowadays with information and communications technology.

Authored by Councilor Roderick Awingan, Ordinance No. 24-2016 institutionalizes the use of access devices for payment of fees, charges, assessment, taxes and other revenues due the municipality through the electronic payment and collection system (EPCS).

The measure is anchored on Republic Act 8792 otherwise known as the Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 which underscores the need to create an information friendly environment which supports and ensures the availability, diversity and affordability of ICT products and services.

Under the ordinance, various modes and channels of electronic payment such as credit cards, debit cards, cash cards, mobile phones as prescribed in the guidelines under Department of Trade and Industry-Department of Finance Joint Department Administrative Order No. 2 series 2006 will be accommodated.

Accordingly this will instill among stakeholders good governance practices making use of the advantage of innovations in information technology for a convenient, efficient and effective collection system.

The measure is elevated to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for review. JDP/SCA