ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Zamboanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation has commended Mayor Beng Climaco for her dynamic leadership in initiating new programs such as the E-PESO that supports the shift from cash-based economy to digital and inclusive e-payment ecosystem.
Chamber president Edwin To, who represented the private sector during the formal launching of the USAID-sponsored E-PESO program, thanked Climaco for “leading the way in introducing the cashless and paperless transaction in the city.”
He said the initiative will surely put Zamboanga in the business map aside from the many benefits and advantages it will give to the city and its people.
“Thank you very much Mayor Climaco for leading the way. It is a show of your dynamic leadership,” To said.
Aside from promoting cashless and paperless transactions, the E-PESO program will help improve the city’s tax collection efficiency as Zamboangueños residing abroad will be able to pay their taxes.
“But most importantly, this E-peso system will promote self-esteem,” To said, adding, that owning a card for various transactions is something that people below the poverty line would be excited and happy about.
He likewise thanked the USAID for facilitating the financing the program and for choosing Zamboanga as a beneficiary of the E-PESO project.
“I have no doubts, this program will succeed in Zamboanga City and rest assured, we in the private sector will work with the city government for the successful implementation of the E-PESO project,” To said.
USAID Acting Deputy Mission Director Roger Carlson also cited Zamboanga City for its role and support to the implementation of the project.
Carlson said the partnership will greatly benefit the Zamboanga and its neighboring areas and set an example and lead the way in the Philippine and in the region. “I can see that being open to technology and good governance and E-PESO is now becoming the new norm in the country and the new norm in Zamboanga City,” he said. (Sheila Covarrubias)
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