“We are available online for our business permit application and issuance. The client can apply and have the business permit printed at their own convenience,” Paguican said during the I-Speak media forum Thursday (September 8).
Paguican emphasized that the city is implementing automation as compliant with the mandate of Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018 , particularly Section 11 of said law.
The law mandates the streamlined delivery of public services to the people through the utilization of digital platforms and automated systems.
“We are available online for our business permit application and issuance. The client can apply and have the business permit printed at their own convenience,” Paguican said.
Paguican said clients can also apply for a special and occupational permit through their website.
From January to July 2022, Paguican said the office has renewed a total of 40,371 business permits in the city, which is considerably higher than the 38,963 renewals issued during the same period last year.
A total of 5,947 new business permits were approved this year.
Paguican said as many as 46,000 business owners applied for a business permit last year, however, 6,000 of these business applications were not able to secure permits.
Not all applications will be successful because applications will have to go through different offices, including the Bureau of Fire,” she said.
She said as many as 50,000 new and renewal business permits may be issued before the year ends. This is largely due to the automated systems integrated into the office’s operations which streamline and fast track day-to-day business transactions.
Paguican, meanwhile, urged gig app workers including Food Panda and Grab riders to apply for a business permit instead of an occupational permit since they are considered as freelance/contractual service providers.
Under the City Ordinance No. 0612-21 series of 2021, gig app workers are eligible for the issuance of business permits on significantly fewer charges and lower fees.