Senator Sherwin Gatchalian wants local government units (LGUs) to have their own Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) to help encourage investments and support economic growth.

Gatchalian, co-author of Senate Bill 1278 or the BPLO Act, said the measure seeks to ensure that every city and municipality will have a dedicated BPLO, enabling LGUs to have the tools and mandate to serve their constituents better.

“By establishing a BPLO in every LGU, we create a one-stop shop for business-related transactions, reducing the burden on our entrepreneurs and making government services more accessible and systematic. It complements the spirit of the Ease of Doing Business Act, which laid the groundwork for efficient service delivery,” he said in a news release Sunday.

Realizing the challenges new businesses face in securing the necessary permits, Gatchalian, as mayor at the time, worked on establishing a BPLO in Valenzuela –a move he hopes will be replicated by every LGU nationwide.

The chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means said institutionalizing BPLOs would provide a supportive and welcoming environment for businesses that will hope to attract much-needed investments, particularly in non-urban areas.

“LGUs need to be ready and equipped to respond promptly and effectively to investor needs particularly small businesses and startups to help generate employment opportunities for our people and underpin economic growth,” he said. (PNA)

Photo credit: Davao City website