Senator Sherwin Gatchalian wants local government units (LGUs) to have their own Business Permit and Licensing Offices (BPLO) to help encourage investments and support economic growth.
Gatchalian, who co-authored Senate Bill 1278 or the BPLO Act, said the bill seeks to ensure that every city and municipality will have a dedicated BPLO, that will enable them serve their constituents better.
“By establishing a BPLO in every LGU, we create a one-stop shop for business-related transactions, reducing the burden on entrepreneurs and making government services more accessible and systematic. It complements the spirit of the Ease of Doing Business Act, which laid the groundwork for efficient service delivery,” he said.
Gatchalian, who was former mayor of Valenzuela City, worked on establishing a BPLO in his city which hopes will be replicated by LGUs nationwide. As chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, he said institutionalizing BPLOs would provide a supportive and welcoming environment for businesses that will LGUs attract much-needed investments.
“LGUs need to be ready and equipped to respond promptly and effectively to investor needs particularly small businesses and startups to help generate employment opportunities and help underpin economic growth,” he said.