Monday, July 21, 2008 Money wise: Reformed business permit, licensing system
A RECENTLY launched guidebook gives local government units (LGUs) tips on how reduce the steps for new business permit applications by 69 percent and increase local revenues from new permit fees by 56 percent, as the case with Tacloban City, Leyte.
The guidebook titled, “Towards One Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS),” offers an overview on how Tacloban City increased business permit applicants by 22 percent.
How can an LGU implement the reformed BPLS?
It needs to:
l review local legislations and national policies that are relevant to business permitting and licensing system;
l create a task force and study existing BPLS;
l identify problem areas, recommend changes, and remove extra clearances and signatures.
The guidebook also recommends passing a new BPLS ordinance, improving partnership and participation, improving the LGU’s computer system, and monitoring, among others.
The reformed BPLS is a project of the German Technical Cooperation, Department of Trade and Industry, and the Department of Interior and Local Government. (NRC)
