ARTA, ECCP ink deal to improve ease of doing business

MANILA, Philippines — The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) has partnered with the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) to work together in creating a more business-friendly environment.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was recently signed by ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez and ECCP president Paulo Duarte in Makati City.

Under the MOU, the ECCP will be designated as an ARTA champion authorized to receive complaints from the business sector, professionals and civil society organizations, to be endorsed to the agency for appropriate action.

ECCP will also assist the ARTA through the timely reporting of information related to fixing activities and other forms of red tape.

In addition, the ECCP will support and promote ARTA’s programs to the business sector.

Meanwhile, ARTA will ensure complaints endorsed by the ECCP are acted accordingly and promptly.

The ARTA will also seek recommendations from the ECCP on how to improve regulatory systems, policies and procedures in national government agencies and local government units.

“This MOU is a step toward assuring our businessmen, members of ECCP which constitute a big portion of the investors in the country, reassure them that the administration of President Marcos is really serious about providing them the right avenue, the right resources for ease of doing business in the country,” Perez said.

He said the agency is encouraging businessmen to work with them to address their concerns.

For his part, Duarte said the MOU shows the commitment of both parties for a more business-friendly environment in the country.

“The ECCP, in endorsing the concerns of its members, will help ensure that the ARTA remains responsive to the needs of the business community,” he said.

Duarte said the ECCP is also committed to contribute to the country’s growth and development by providing valuable policy recommendations and participating in stakeholder dialogues to foster a dynamic and responsive regulatory environment.