By Brian Campued
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and University of the Philippines – Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (UP-NOAH) for the implementation of a digital tracking platform designed to monitor and evaluate government projects.
The Digital Imaging for Monitoring and Evaluation, or “Project DIME”, is a technology-driven initiative in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas” where technology is harnessed to improve transparency and accountability in governance and delivering public service.
According to the DBM, the Project DIME provides real-time updates on the status and progress of a specific government project, displaying relevant information such as completion date, fund source, implementing agency, and name of the contractor.
“With the advent of technology, the demand for progress from our citizens increases. In just one click, they can rightly demand for greater openness, transparency, and accountability, especially for projects and initiatives that have significant impact in their lives. And if our people demand for progress, then their government must be able to respond,” Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said.
“Ang pagkaantala sa mga proyekto ng pamahalaan ay pagkaantala rin sa pagbibigay ng maayos at magandang pamumuhay para sa ating mamamayan. We cannot let that happen,” she added.
In a separate statement, DPWH Sec. Manuel Bonoan said it will collaborate closely with the DBM to ensure improved platform performance, field validation of data, responsible content management, and targeted capacity building interventions.
“By working together, we can ensure that the data for infrastructure projects will be consistent, comprehensive, and shared in a way that fosters better public understanding,” Bonoan said.
UP Vice President for Digital Transformation Peter Sy said the UP-NOAH Center will integrate disaster risk reduction strategies into the DIME website to ensure that government projects are resilient to natural hazards.
Sy underscored the importance of the MOU signing as it supports efforts toward “good governance, disaster resilience, and inclusive development.”
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