Republic Act No. 9485, or the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 (ARTA), was enacted to improve efficiency in government services and eliminate excessive bureaucracy — commonly known as "red tape."
If you're preparing for the Civil Service Exam or want to understand how the government should serve its citizens better, this law is a must-know.
🎯 Purpose of RA 9485
The law aims to:
- Simplify government procedures
- Improve frontline services
- Prevent fixers and corrupt practices
- Promote transparency and accountability in public service
It was created to ensure that government transactions are efficient, citizen-friendly, and corruption-free.
🏛 Who Is Covered?
RA 9485 applies to:
- All government offices and agencies that provide frontline services, including:
- National government agencies
- Local government units (LGUs)
- Government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs)
- State colleges and universities
📌 Key Features of RA 9485
1. Citizen’s Charter
Every government office must display a Citizen’s Charter — a guide that lists:
- The steps to get a service
- Requirements
- Fees (if any)
- Maximum processing time
- Responsible office/unit
📍 This must be posted in a visible area to inform the public.
2. Time Limits for Transactions
- Simple transactions: Must be processed within 5 working days
- Complex transactions: Must be completed within 10 working days
Only under exceptional circumstances can these be extended.
3. Anti-Fixer Provision
- Strictly prohibits fixers, or people who offer to expedite government services in exchange for money.
- Both the fixer and the official involved may face criminal and administrative penalties.
4. Public Assistance and Complaints Desk
All offices must have a help desk to:
- Assist applicants
- Receive feedback or complaints
- Guide the public in accessing services properly
⚖️ Penalties for Violations
Public officials who violate RA 9485 may face:
- Administrative penalties, such as suspension or dismissal
- Criminal charges, including imprisonment and fines
- Blacklisting from public service
🧠 Relevance to Civil Service Exam
RA 9485 is often asked in the General Information and situational judgment portions of the exam.
You may encounter questions such as:
- How many days are allowed for processing a government service?
- What must be included in a Citizen’s Charter?
- What should you do if you encounter a fixer?
🚨 Updates: RA 11032 – Ease of Doing Business Act
In 2018, RA 9485 was strengthened by RA 11032 (Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act), which introduced:
- Stricter penalties for violations
- Streamlined processes for business applications
- A central complaints and monitoring system
🧠 Still, RA 9485 remains a core foundation in discussions of anti-red tape policies.
Final Thoughts
RA 9485 is a crucial law that empowers every Filipino to demand efficient, honest, and transparent public service. As a future civil servant or informed citizen, understanding this law helps you stand against inefficiency and corruption.
📚 Review well. Serve better. Say no to red tape.