Metrobriefs

Application for NBI clearance now online

Applications for clearance issued by the National Bureau of Investigation may now be done online. The applicant can now apply at www.nbi.gov.ph by filling out the form provided at the site to start the process, according to NBI information office chief Nick Suarez. He or she could then set the date for an appointment at the NBI main office or a satellite or regional office for photo and biometric data capturing. “The new system will improve our procedures and systems to better serve the public. It will also make the process faster and more convenient,” Suarez said. An NBI clearance is usually required for local employment, foreign trips, seafarer’s visa application, military and police enlistment, among others. Nancy Carvajal

9 NGOs to watch budget, projects of DSWD-NCR

The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) regional office in the National Capital Region said nine civil society organizations would soon be serving as its consultants and monitors for its various projects for the poor. Under a recently signed partnership agreement, the chosen groups may actively participate in the DSWD-NCR’s budget process and later in the monitoring of how the funds are being spent, according to Regional Director Alicia Bonoan. “This is a constructive partnership between national government agencies and private entities in monitoring the implementation of various programs, activities or projects of the government. This highlights the importance of transparency in all government transactions and processes,” Bonoan said in a statement. The nine nongovernment organizations covered by the agreement are Live for Others Movement Inc.; Center for Popular Empowerment; KBCF Operation Paglingap Foundation; Unang Hakbang Foundation Inc; I am Redeemer and Master of Evangelical Ministries; Mandaluyong City Federation of Senior Citizens Association; People Power Volunteers Reform; Partnership for Integrated Services & Social Devt. and Moral Recovery and Chaplaincy Organizational Movement. Lito Gualdajara, president of Live for Others Movement, said, “We are glad that we are now part of planning the annual budget in implementing (DSWD) programs.”