The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has launched a fully digital system for issuing permits to courier and delivery services, resulting in a faster and more efficient application approval process.
The DICT’s new PEMEDES online platform is now the required way for all private courier firms to register and get their Authority to Operate (ATO) permit. This rule is based on Department Circular No. HRA-005, which took effect on September 17, 2025.
Before this system, the DICT processed all applications manually using paper. That older process was slow, resulting in only about 10 to 12 permits being issued each year.
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Since the digital system went live in September, the DICT has issued 56 new ATOs in just about three months. Officials credit the faster, fully online process for the sharp increase.
The new system handles everything from the initial filing to the final evaluation of an application. The DICT said the goals are to make the process more transparent, cut down processing time, and make it easier for businesses to follow the rules.
You can access the DICT’s PEMEDES portal here.