Senator Win Gatchalian urged the Office of the Ombudsman to look into eliminating crippling red tape in the country, calling it the biggest impediment to the country’s economic growth.

“Red tape is the biggest roadblock to our country’s progress. Imbes na padaliin natin ang buhay ng mga negosyante natin, intentionally or unintentionally pinahihirapan natin,” said Gatchalian, chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. The senator noted that the prosecution of red tape-related offenses forms part of the Ombudsman’s mandate. 

“Meron tayong Anti-Red Tape Authority but the prosecution rests with the Ombudsman. This is something that we need to look at dahil ito ang pumapatay sa negosyo,” he emphasized.  

Newly-appointed Ombudsman Jesus Remulla vowed to work closely with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to identify programs that will help eliminate bureaucratic red tape in the government, particularly in enhancing the ease of doing business.  This includes streamlining the process of securing permits for the establishment of cell sites which has long hindered the efficient delivery of internet services.

“This has to end. We have to get everyone in stride and on the same page,” Remulla said during a hearing on the proposed budget of the Office of Ombudsman.