ILOILO City – The city government is expecting more than 12,000 businesses to renew their permits this year.
Renewal applications can be submitted until Jan. 20 so as not to incur penalties, according to Local Economic Development Investment and Promotions (LEDIP) chief Velma Jane Lao.
“They can still do so until the end of the month but there is already a penalty,” she said. “We expect more than 12,000 businesses to renew this year. I think the other year it even reached 14,000.”
To facilitate smooth processing and ensure that safety protocols are followed, the city government is urging owners to avail themselves of services at the offsite Business One Stop Shop (BOSS), available in four malls until the end of the month.
BOSS offices, which also release the renewed permits, are at the Festive Walk Mall, Marymart Center, Robinsons Place, and SM City, in addition to onsite renewal at the City Hall.
Those who could not beat the deadline will have to bear the 25-percent surcharge for tax dues and two-percent penalty monthly.
BOSS mall branches are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. daily.
Lao said processing of permits for new businesses will commence February 1. (PNA)