TACLOBAN CITY-The Business Permits and Licenses Division (BPLD) noted strong business renewals, with collections reaching about P210 million by January 31, marking a 19.32 percent increase compared to the generated P176 million revenue in the same period last year.
In an interview, BPLD head Gemafiel Gaspay attributed the success to the strategic placement of three satellite offices in malls, providing convenience to business owners and easing congestion at the onsite Business One-Stop Shop in Tacloban City Hall.
Gaspay further disclosed that around 90% or a total of 7,122 business permits have already been renewed, with transport renewals reaching 1,351 or roughly 60-70% of the target.
In connection, she expressed confidence in hitting or even surpassing the P318,974,547.75 target despite the end of the extended surcharge-free period, as renewal processing continues at the City Hall BOSS on weekdays from 8 Am to 5 pm.
However, business owners who have yet to process their permits now will be facing a 25% surcharge on the total amount due and an additional two percent every month of delay until settlement, as stipulated under City Ordinance 99-58.
The official, on the other hand, extended her gratitude to the business community for their cooperation, noting their great contributions to keeping the local economy even more vibrant.
Meanwhile, the release of business plates, according to Gaspay, is scheduled for this month of February.
In a related development, as the city of Tacloban enforces the Plastic and Styrofoam Regulation Ordinance, the BPLD head emphasizes upcoming inspections to ensure businesses comply with the regulation, following extensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns conducted by their office and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) since the ordinance’s enactment in March 2023.
(C.MERIN/R.CABLAO, CITY INFORMATION OFFICE)
