The Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) Philippine National Public Key Infrastructure (PNPKI) service is being pushed to be adopted by government agencies to secure online transactions and communications in the new normal.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 2020-06 released last August 27, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) has directed government agencies to avail of and recognize the use of the PNPKI of the DICT, which utilizes digital signatures in signing official documents.
PNPKI ensures confidentiality, authenticity, integrity and non-repudiation of electronic transactions and documents.
It allows users of public networks to exchange important data in a secure manner.
On April 6, 2020, the DICT released Department Circular No. 006 or the Guidelines on the Application and Issuance of PNPKI Digital Certificates for External Clients during the State of Public Health Emergency. Interested applicants may refer to the said guideline which can be accessed at the DICT website.
“The DICT appreciates ARTA’s efforts in promoting the use of PNPKI to ensure reduced contact between employees of government agencies and their external clients. The DICT has earlier offered its PNPKI services to various agencies to help them adopt to new work arrangements and the new normal in public service delivery. With ARTA’s help, we expect more government agencies to use digital signing of documents and avail of our PNPKI services,” DICT Secretary Gregorio B. Honasan II said.
“With the threat of virus transmission still looming, utilizing ICT and PNPKI in online transactions is one way of helping prevent further transmission of COVID-19,” he added.
Recently, it was reported that 97% of the Office of the Solicitor General’s workforce are already using DICT’s PNPKI services. DICT joins ARTA in encouraging more government agencies as well as the public to avail and use electronic signatures and DICT’s PNPKI.
Memorandum Circular No. 2020-06 was electronically signed by signatories from ARTA using digital certificates. Likewise, a recently issued Joint Memorandum Circular to streamline requirements and reduce procedural delays in securing the necessary permits, licenses, clearances, certificates, and other requirements in the construction of Shared Passive Telecommunications Tower Infrastructures (PTTI) between ARTA, DICT, and other concerned Agencies was signed using DICT’s PNPKI.
