PBBM’s legacy: Crackdown on corruption

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. considers digital transformation one of his legacies to the Filipino people. In his fourth State of the Nation Address, BBM promised a crackdown on corruption by enhancing transparency, streamlining processes, and increasing accountability.

“I have always believed that the future belongs to those who are ready for it. That is why we are working hard to make the Philippines a nation that is connected, empowered, and prepared for the digital age.

“I started our digital transformation by strengthening the backbone of progress —fast, reliable and secure connectivity. My goal is simple: to get every Filipino online, no matter where they live, and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.

“With support from data centers, tech hubs, and startups, my administration is driving the Philippines toward becoming a hub for smart, sustainable technologies — powering everything from businesses and schools to hospitals and government offices,” the President said.

Digital transformation by enhancing transparency, streamlining processes, and increasing accountability can significantly minimize corruption. While digital tools can reduce opportunities for corruption, economic and institutional factors can play a crucial role.

The University of the Philippines (UP) has taken essential strides toward digital transformation by hosting a workshop titled “CoA Policies Supporting the Digitalization of UP Information Systems with the Commission on Audit” in February 2025 at the Malcolm Theater in UP Diliman.

Atty. Marlon Marquina, director of the CoA Information Technology Audit Office (CoA-ITAO), served as the resource speaker for the workshop.

The hybrid event drew more than 430 participants from various UP constituent universities, including representatives from key university departments such as accounting, budgeting, cash, human resources, and supplies and property management.

The workshop aimed to address concerns regarding the legality and validity of digital transactions with CoA guidance.

In his discussion, Attorney Marquina emphasized the inevitability of digital transactions in the coming years.

“The future is digital and technology is the tool that will get us there,” he said, stressing the importance of establishing a secure and legally sound foundation to ensure that the transition to digital transactions is both seamless and compliant with legal requirements.

The university recognizes that the digital shift would require not only technological upgrades but also a cultural and operational transformation across all levels of the institution.

UP Vice President for Development Daniel C. Peckley Jr. acknowledged the magnitude of the changes ahead, emphasizing the importance of staying committed to excellence in the university’s core values.

“This shift is not just about updating systems,” he said. “It is about strengthening our commitment to excellence in service to the people.”

He stressed that this digital transition is essential for UP to continue meeting the needs of the stakeholders efficiently while upholding its public service mission.

At CoA’s Strategic Planning Conference, Chairperson Gamaliel A. Cordoba announced plans for a seven-year digital transformation. As part of CoA’s 10-point agenda, it will implement e-audit, digitalizing government transactions, including collections, in collaboration with various agencies.

These are but some of the efforts to reflect the broader push toward a more efficient, transparent and technology-driven government.

By embracing digital transformation, agencies continue to aim at reducing bureaucratic hurdles, improving public service and strengthening accountability in the years ahead.