CEBU CITY, Philippines – The Cebu City government may take the route taken by power and water utility firms by allowing payment of licenses, permits and taxes through automated teller machines (ATM), over the counter in accredited banks, and online services.Cebu City Councilor Augustus Pe Jr. filed a proposed ordinance that facilitates the payment of taxes and documentary requirements through electronic means. The measure will also authorize the Cebu City Treasurer's Office to accept these payments and issue business licenses and permits through electronic transfer, an amendment to the city's Revised Omnibus Tax ordinance. Banking institutions will first seek accreditation from the mayor's office through the City Treasurer's Office. A memorandum of agreement (MOA) will then be entered into between the Cebu City government and a representative from the bank. The proposed ordinance follows the Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 which states that the government recognizes the use of electronic data messages or electronic documents in facilitating and effecting its commercial and non-commercial transactions. The law also mandates government agencies to issue permits, licenses or certificates of registration using electronic data messages or electronic documents. However, Pe said the City Treasurer and the City Council's chairman of the Finance Committee have yet to make the implementing rules and regulations of the ordinance. The rules will outline the requirements for accreditation, the manner or mechanism of payment and the control processes and procedure to ensure adequate integrity, security, and confidentiality of payments. The proposed ordinance provides the same privileges enjoyed by prompt taxpayers who pay in cash pursuant to the existing City Tax Ordinance. | 
