The City Government of Makati continues to roll out groundbreaking projects that bring its various government services closer to its residents. Among those initiatives is the Makatizen app, which was recently launched in time for the city’s 347th foundation anniversary.
The first-of-its-kind digital citizen app is designed to bring important information and various civic services to Makati residents via their mobile devices in a more engaging, rewarding, and convenient way.
The Makatizen app is a collaboration between Neo-Converge ICT Solutions, Inc (the proponent of proof-of-concept public-private partnership or PPP) and Voyager Innovations (a digital innovations unit of PLDT and its mobile subsidiary Smart Communications Inc.).
From left: Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo; Mayor Abigail Binay; PLDT, Smart, and Voyager Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan; and Voyager President and CEO Orlando B. Vea.
Better way to reach out to people
“As we celebrate our founding anniversary, we also look to the future as the city that sets the pace of the country—and that includes engaging our Makati City residents at the speed of digital through the Makatizen app,” said City Mayor Abigail Binay. “We look forward to serving our constituents better and faster through this new platform that gives them the power to actively participate using their mobile phones.”
PLDT, Smart, and Voyager Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan commended the Makati City government for what he described as “a truly remarkable initiative that embarks on a digital transformation like no other.” He added, “Local government units like Makati are fast opening doors for bringing wider access to the digital economy through digital inclusion efforts such as the Makatizen app made better by Voyager’s platforms.”
“Digital extends access to the unserved and underserved, and levels the playing field for all,” said Voyager Innovations President and CEO Orlando Vea. “We’re glad that Makati is embarking on this journey with the help of Voyager’s platforms in building a truly inclusive government and a pioneering digital city that benefits all of its citizens.”
From left: Makati City 1st District Rep. Manuel Monsour Del Rosario; 2nd District Rep. Luis Campos; Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo; Mayor Abigail Binay; PLDT, Smart, and Voyager Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan; Voyager President and CEO Orlando B. Vea; Gail Consolacion; and PLDT Vice President and Head of PLDT Alpha Vic Tria.
App features
Once downloaded into a mobile device, the user will have access to the following beneficial features of the Makatizen app:
MakaGimik – posts regularly updated advisories and announcements about the city government’s programs and events
MakaRide – facilitates instant booking of a ride on board any of Makati’s point-to-point shuttle service (initially available for Makati City government employees)
MakaShopping – an in-app online marketplace powered by Voyager’s e-Commerce platform, Takatack where Makati residents can instantly shop for must-have items and receive exclusive discounts. Orders can be placed through mobile devices and purchased items will be delivered to straight to users’ addresses.
MakaNegosyo – provides relevant information on how and why to invest and start a business within Makati City
What’s more? Makatizen app can be accessed and used without incurring any data charge, another feature that can be enjoyed exclusively by users who are subscribing to the services Smart, TNT, and Sun Cellular. This is intended to further bolster citizen engagement and at the same time to empower users to actively participate in the digital economy.
More innovative and citizen-enabling features will be rolled out in the Makatizen app soon.