Document: Follow-up Activities on the Improvement and Documentation of Business Licensing Procedures in the Cities Bacolod and Ormoc

Several studies from multilateral organizations and academic institutions have indicated that complicated and time-consuming business registration is an inhibiting factor in shaping an enabling environment for business and investments. The burden falls in particular on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) because of their limited resources.

Recognizing that the simplification of rules, regulations and registration requirements is one of the key areas for reform, the national government has issued directives along this line. In line with the above, a simplified business permit and licensing system (BPLS) was designed and pilot-tested in two cities in the Visayas, the city of Bacolod the city of Ormoc on the Philippines.