By Darryl John Esguerra, May 21, 2025; Philippine News Agency

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250505

MANILA – The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has launched a digital monitoring platform for major government projects in a bid to boost transparency and accountability in public infrastructure spending.

The initiative, dubbed Digital Information for Monitoring and Evaluation (Project DIME), aims to provide real-time data on the status of big-ticket infrastructure programs, displaying key information such as completion rates, budget sources, implementing agencies, and contractors.

The DBM signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the University of the Philippines Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (UP-NOAH) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Tuesday to enhance the system’s capability and ensure that the platform also integrates disaster resilience considerations into infrastructure planning.

“With the advent of technology, the demand for progress from our citizens increases,” said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, as quoted in a DBM news release Wednesday.

“In just one click, they can rightly demand for greater openness, transparency, and accountability, especially for projects and initiatives that have significant impact in their lives. And if our people demand for progress, then their government must be able to respond.”

She said project delays translate into delays in improving the lives of Filipinos.

“We cannot let that happen,” she said.

The move is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s 2023 Executive Order No. 31, institutionalizing the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP), which promotes transparency, civic participation, anti-corruption measures, and the use of technology in governance.

UP Vice President for Digital Transformation Peter Sy said the partnership strengthens efforts toward “good governance, disaster resilience, and inclusive development.”

“Today’s signing is a testament to our shared commitment… We are honored to join you in this journey,” Sy said.

The DPWH, meanwhile, will contribute project data, help identify visible infrastructure developments on the ground, and assist in publishing spending metrics like obligation and disbursement rates.

“By working together, we can ensure that the data for infrastructure projects will be consistent, comprehensive, and shared in a way that fosters better public understanding,” DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said.

The MOU signing took place in Quezon City during the celebration of Open Government Week.