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

“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,” said Gatchalian, a co-author of Senate Bill 1278 or the BPLO Act. 

He explained that 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.

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. “Bilang dating alkalde ng Valenzuela City, alam ko ang hirap na dinaranas noon ng mga Valenzuelano sa pagkuha ng business permit,” said Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. 

According to him, 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,” Gatchalian said.

“Ang panukalang batas na ito ay isang konkretong hakbang para tiyaking ang bawat LGU ay may kakayahang tugunan ang pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan lalo na ang mga mamumuhunan sa mas episyente at maayos na paraan,” he added.