The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) launched the pilot trial of its Project Information Management System, a database that tracks all anti-poverty initiatives in the country by using a built-in geo-tagging feature.

According to DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman, PIMS will help make project implementation more efficient, as the information is now integrated for all units at different levels – from the central government agencies down to the barangays (villages).

Aside from data storage, the system can also be used for map production, geo-tagging application, and spatial analysis. It also has web and Short Message Service (SMS) applications. She highlighted its geo-tagging feature as a key tool that can help local authorities ensure transparency in project implementations.

Geo-tagging involves attaching location-specific information such as geographical coordinates to pictures, videos and even SMS messages. By incorporating geo-tagging, in project management, DWSD can easily track, validate and confirm the roll out of government projects and whether they have achieved their desired goals.

“The PIMS helps ensure the integrity of the project by making the data transparent at all levels. Since more eyes will now be looking into the progress of the projects the possibility of committing fraud is minimised even more,” Soliman said

She added that through PIMS, lead agencies will now be able to better track the progress of the projects, allowing them to better respond to issues and concerns that may be flagged by any of the staff.