ILOILO City – This city is setting a new standard in government efficiency with the streamlined renewal process for business permits, now incorporating digital integration for barangay business clearances.
This enhancement, spearheaded by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the city government, aims to eliminate the hurdles of manual processing and promote a seamless, contactless experience for entrepreneurs.
The city’s Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) officer Velma Jane Lao revealed that DICT’s Integrated Business Permits and Licensing System (iBPLS) has undergone significant customization to align with the city’s specific tax computations and administrative requirements.
Currently, 140 of Iloilo City’s 180 barangays are integrated into the system, allowing business owners to secure barangay clearances online without the need to visit barangay halls.
The digital clearance is automatically attached to their application, saving time and reducing physical interactions.
Applicants also have the flexibility to pay fees online or over the counter, and permits can be accessed digitally once payments are confirmed.
However, Lao emphasized the importance of displaying the original physical business permit in the premises of the concerned establishment, as electronic copies alone are not yet acceptable.
Plans to integrate courier services into the system are also underway, with further enhancements expected before the 2025 business renewal period.
Mayor Jerry Treñas’ administration has been a strong advocate for the ease of doing business, aligning with the national government’s push for a zero-contact policy to curb corruption and delays.
This is about transforming the entire process — from application to issuance — into a seamless experience, Lao explained./PN
