In preparation for the development of the Philippine ABS Functional Mechanism (ABS Clearing House) online system, a Design Thinking workshop was conducted last July 2-3, 2024 in Clark, Pampanga. The objective of the workshop is to gather inputs from the representatives of DENR, DA-BFAR, NCIP and PCSD in their existing processes and online information system in processing and issuing Gratuitous and other related permits which is essential in the design of the system.
After the presentation and harmonization of the processes from the 4 agencies, the representatives from IT-ERA, the firm contracted for the development of the system, presented the Alpha version of the proposed system, designed similar to the existing online system of some countries like South Korea and France. The features of the Alpha version were discussed with the participants providing inputs and recommendations. It was agreed that all recommendations will be integrated in the Beta version of the system to be presented by August 2024.
One of the highlights of the workshop was the online consultation with Matthew Dias, Programme Officer of the CBD Secretariat in charge of the ABS Clearinghouse. Matthew provided some inputs to the workshop participants in what the CBD Secretariat is doing in relation to the ABS Clearinghouse specially on how the proposed Philippines ABS Clearing House Mechanism will connect to the CBD’s Clearing House on the issuance of an internationally-recognized certificate of compliance (IRCC).