THE local government of Quezon City has received two top awards from the International Data Corp. (IDC).

The city was named as the “Best in Future of Digital Innovation Framework” and “Best Customer Experience” for its work on digital transformation.

The IDC praised the city’s technology innovations that support prospective company owners in starting and expanding their enterprises.

Quezon City started a major effort in 2019 to streamline and organize transactions and procedures. The QC Biz Easy Online Unified Business Permit System, a simplified system that links required departments to make applying for and renewing business licenses easier for entrepreneurs, was introduced at the height of the pandemic.

The Automated Inspection Audit System was also introduced, which helps in the inspection and verification of compliance with regulatory licenses. Regulators may therefore verify and evaluate new businesses across the city using a basic tablet and a portable printer -- considered the first of its kind among local governments.

“We have always prioritized digital technology as a tool for good governance and improved services,” Margarita Santos, head of the Business Permits and Licensing Department said.

“Under the guidance of Mayor Maria Josefina ‘Joy’ Belmonte and City Administrator Michael Alimurung, we are so happy that key aspects of our digital transformation are now bearing fruit and reaping benefits for the city and its residents. Rest assured, we have more programs and innovations in the pipeline,” she added.

Santos also stressed how these technological advancements might assist small- and medium-sized business owners in overcoming economic obstacles or, at the very least, make their migrations into different industries easier.

“We are truly honored by these recognitions from the IDC. Apart from validating our hard work, it serves to inspire us to strive harder to make things even more convenient for all QCitizens,” Santos said.

The IDC is a leading global source of market research, consultancies and events for the information and technology sector. They give out Future Enterprise Awards to corporate and governmental organizations using technology to narrow the digital divide and drive economic development.