DoGE in the Philippines

DoGE in the Philippines | Daily Tribune

Elon Musk’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DoGE) is a radical idea — an internal watchdog tasked with cutting inefficiencies, eliminating bureaucracy and streamlining operations. But could a similar office work in the Philippines, a country long plagued by bureaucratic red tape, inefficiency and corruption? The answer is both hopeful and challenging.

The Philippines has long struggled with excessive bureaucracy, often ranked poorly in ease of doing business reports due to slow government processes. From securing permits to processing basic government transactions, inefficiency is a widespread problem that stifles economic growth, deters investors and frustrates ordinary citizens.

A government office similar to DoGE could help address these issues. By cutting red tape and pushing for efficiency, such an office could help fast-track reforms. The Philippines has taken steps toward digitalization and bureaucratic streamlining, such as the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and the Ease of Doing Business Act. However, enforcement remains inconsistent, and deeply entrenched interests resist change. A watchdog agency solely dedicated to cutting inefficiency could accelerate progress and make real improvements.

While the idea of an efficiency watchdog is appealing, the Philippine political landscape presents significant challenges. Due to bureaucratic resistance, government offices are often hesitant to embrace change. Red tape persists not just due to inefficiency but because it provides opportunities for bribery and patronage. Any agency tasked with eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy would face opposition from those who benefit from the status quo.

Further, the lack of political will due to quick changing tides of politics — For such an office to be effective, it would need strong backing from the highest levels of government. Presidents have launched anti-corruption and anti-red tape initiatives in the past, but many fizzle out due to lack of sustained political will or shifting political priorities. A Filipino DoGE could be used as a political tool or weaponized, rather than a true force for efficiency. It could be selectively applied to target political opponents while turning a blind eye to inefficiencies within allied offices.

If a Filipino DoGE is to be created, it would need to be structured in a way that ensures independence and effectiveness. Like ARTA, a DoGE office should have clear legal authority to cut unnecessary regulations, hold agencies accountable, and impose penalties for inefficiency. There must be a transparent reporting system where citizens can report inefficiencies in real-time, perhaps through a digital platform, would be essential. The office should be led by independent technocrats, not politicians, to ensure it remains a non-partisan institution.

A DoGE-like office in the Philippines is not impossible, but it would require more than just a decree to succeed. The thought of cutting Filipino government jobs would spark an immediate outcry, and be instantly branded as anti-poor, although there have been similar quiet efforts before in government offices, compensating those who would opt to retire early.

Still, the idea is worth considering. If implemented correctly, it could be a game-changer in a country where red tape has long been an obstacle to progress. The real question is: Are we ready for such a radical reform?

For comments, email him at darren.dejesus@gmail.com.