Strengthening Tax Collection and Revenue Generation in Aleosan and Libungan, North Cotabato

Recently, the Mahintana Foundation, Inc. through its EU-funded RESOURCEGov project, facilitated the Training-Workshop on Efficiency of Tax Collection and Revenue Generation through GIS based tax mapping using ODK and Qlik Systems on November 17-18, 2015 to provide LGUs Aleosan and Libungan, North Cotabato with inputs on good practices on tax collection/revenue generation especially on local sources of income. At least 40 participants including Department Heads, LGU Staff, BFP and CSOs attended the activity.

Engr. Danny Pelias, MPDO of Polomolok, South Cotabato, presented the step-by-step process and practical skills to setup the ODK and Qlik systems. He also introduced other possible free, useful and open-source applications that LGUs can make use of such as the Formhub, Ona and Kobo Toolbox. He said that the systems are easy to use which will enable users to collect and share information seamlessly.

As part of the workshop and combined with the help from the project team, the participants were able to successfully download, use and set the parameters of the ODK app using their android gadgets for optimal use and were able to conduct actual/field monitoring in some of the projects/programs implemented both locally funded and other funding agencies. The participants were guided through the process of strategically deploying data collection by using smartphones and tablets. They appreciated the set of tools

introduced and conveyed their interest to utilize it in their respective LGUs. Not only will it make data gathering and monitoring of projects/programs easier and produce more accurate information but it can be used in a large extent by LGUs for efficient Tax Collection and Revenue Generation and for them to become more proficient in implementing strategies/mechanisms in promoting good Local Governance.