The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) is pushing for a significant overhaul in the processing of medical and financial aid, aiming to cut down the time to just one day. ARTA Director General Ernesto Perez announced this initiative during the 2025 Ease of Doing Business Economic Briefing held at the University of Asia and the Pacific in Pasig City. Perez emphasized the need for a presidential directive to standardize and simplify the requirements and processes across various government agencies involved in providing medical assistance.
Perez highlighted that the proposal, already submitted to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., seeks to eliminate redundant steps and establish clear timelines for processing aid. This move is intended to ensure that medical assistance is delivered promptly to those in need. The initiative will encompass agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Department of Health, and hospitals.
Furthermore, ARTA’s proposal includes a recommendation for data sharing among these agencies to prevent the repetitive submission of documents by applicants seeking help from both national and local government units. Perez expressed optimism about the potential impact of these changes, stating that the goal is to have the agencies act on requests within a day of receiving the necessary documentation.