WHEREAS, the State recognizes the vital role of information and communications technology (ICT) in nation-building; the need to develop human resources for the information age that are skilled in the use of ICT and a population capable of operating and utilizing electronic appliances and computers; its obligation to facilitate the transfer and promotion of technology and to ensure network security, connectivity and neutrality of technology for the national benefit;
WHEREAS, Section 27 of Republic Act (RA) No. 8792 or the "Electronic Commerce Act," mandates all departments, bureaus, offices and agencies of the government, as well as all government-owned or -controlled corporations to, among others, provide for the method and manner of payment or settlement of fees and other obligations to the government, and to require and/or accept payments and issue receipts acknowledging such payments through systems, using electronic data messages or electronic documents;