BACOLOD CITY – The city government here has unveiled an electronic kiosk (e-kiosk) system for the digital processing of both building and occupancy permits to eliminate fixers and fast-track service delivery.

Mayor Greg Gasataya, who led the project launch at the Government Center on Thursday afternoon, said the goal is to make it easier for businesses to obtain these permits while removing old practices.

“This is part of the city’s effort to implement a ‘no face-to-face policy’ in government transactions. Not only that. The system also ensures efficiency and transparency,” he said.

The launch of the Office of the Building Official (OBO) e-kiosk system came weeks after Gasataya ordered the 90-day preventive suspension of former OBO head Isidro Sun Jr., who is facing administrative charges for grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, violation of the Ease of Doing Business Act, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

An investigation of the City Legal Office showed that Sun is allegedly involved in an irregular occupancy permit approval and solicitation of cash for its processing.

Gasataya said the e-kiosk system allows applicants to register, submit requirements, and track progress online, adding that minimal in-person steps are retained to enable OBO staff to verify the official seal of the submitted documents.

The e-kiosk was tested by permit applicant Mary Jean Abarisco, 52, who said using the new system saves her time, unlike before when she had to spend hours waiting for the processing of her application.

Gasataya was joined by City Administrator Mark Mayo and OBO officer in charge Amy Tentia in launching the e-kiosk system.

To apply for either a building or an occupancy permit, an applicant can register online and upload the application, submit the application, and obtain a barcode.

The OBO then reviews documents for completeness online, and if incomplete, a notice of deficiency is issued. The OBO then re-checks documents during re-evaluation.

If still incomplete, another notice of deficiency is issued, and OBO again evaluates the application, and if insufficient, resubmission is required.

After resubmission, the applicant pays the required fees, and the permit is approved and released.

BACOLOD CITY PIO PHOTO