The Cebu Provincial Government has introduced its first-ever digital wallet payment system through GCash, allowing residents to electronically pay Capitol taxes, fees, penalties, and utility bills. The initiative, which began on Monday, May 25, 2026, aims to reduce long queues and enhance transaction convenience for the public.
Streamlining Provincial Services
According to Paulo Uy, head of the Cebu Provincial Investment and Promotions Office (CPIPO), the system was launched following a directive from Governor Pamela Baricuatro to prioritize digitalization and streamline provincial services. In an interview on Thursday, May 28, Uy emphasized that the digital wallet minimizes waiting times and improves efficiency.
The system covers a wide range of collections, including transfer taxes, real property taxes, sand and gravel fees, governor's permits, truck and van permits, franchise taxes, rental fees, professional taxes, and associated penalties. The transition began late last year when the Provincial Board passed a resolution authorizing the governor to sign an agreement with the service provider.
Integration with Utility Operations
The digitalization program also integrates provincial utility operations. Residents of Malapascua Island can now pay their electricity bills online through GCash, as the province operates the generator sets on the island. Similarly, consumers connected to the provincial waterworks in Moalboal and Carmen can settle their balances digitally.
Uy noted that navigating the legal processes required strict compliance with GCash's Know Your Customer protocols to ensure all financial transactions are properly documented. While the program primarily runs through the Provincial Treasurer's Office, it covers all Capitol departments that collect fees, including the Assessor's Office.
How to Pay Provincial Bills via GCash
Taxpayers and residents can settle their accounts through the GCash application by selecting the Cebu Province billing section, which features three categories:
- Taxes, fees, and penalties: Covers regulatory permits, franchise taxes, real property taxes, and provincial clearing certificates.
- Electricity bill payments: For consumers on Malapascua Island connected to the province-operated generator network.
- Water bill payments: For residents supplied by the inter-LGU waterworks system in Moalboal and Carmen.
This digital payment system marks a significant step in the province's efforts to modernize public services and improve convenience for its residents.
