Manila: The Government Optimization Bill will serve as a crucial tool in improving public service delivery, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Thursday as it hailed the bicameral conference committee's ratification of the proposed law.

According to Philippines News Agency, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman expressed her satisfaction with the progress of the bill, noting that it is now ready for President Bongbong Marcos' signature. "This Optimization Bill aims to help us create a more efficient and responsive government that will improve public service delivery," Pangandaman stated. She also assured that the DBM will collaborate closely with relevant agencies to ensure a smooth implementation of the law once it is enacted.

The measure, which reconciles House of Representatives Bill 7240 and Senate Bill 890, was ratified on Wednesday. It grants the President the authority to streamline the operations of departments and agencies within the executive branch. Initially titled the Rightsizing the National Government Act of 2022, the bill is part of the priority legislation identified by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

The bill proposes the establishment of a Committee on Optimizing the Executive Branch, chaired by the Executive Secretary, with the DBM Secretary as co-chairperson. Other members include the Secretaries of Socioeconomic Planning and Civil Service Commission, the Director-General of the Anti-Red Tape Authority, and a representative for government employees.

Budget Secretary Pangandaman expressed gratitude to the leaders of Congress for their support, especially acknowledging Senate President Francis Escudero and Bukidnon 2nd District Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores for their efforts in advancing the measure before the 19th Congress adjourns.

The bill encompasses all executive branch agencies, including departments, bureaus, offices, and government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs) not covered by the GOCC Governance Act of 2011. Notably, it excludes teaching and teaching-related positions in public education institutions and military and uniformed personnel.

Moreover, the judiciary, legislature, constitutional commissions, Office of the Ombudsman, and local government units have the option to adopt the program in accordance with the law's principles and existing legal frameworks.