Makati denies 'intentional' delay in business permit processing

MANILA, Philipiines - The Makati Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) on Tuesday denied allegations that it is intentionally delaying the processing and release of business permits as it assured applicants and the general public of transparency in its dealings.

 

In a statement, Makati BPLO officer-in-charge Rosendo Alonzo Jr. said the turnaround time for securing business permits in Makati has remained the same – at one to two days for renewal, and at three to four days for new applications and change of business address, as locational clearance must be secured first.

 

Alonzo added that business owners who intend to open a business, or who have existing business permit but intend to transfer to a new location within Makati, must first apply for a locational clearance.

 

Meanwhile, lot owners or lessees who intend to construct a structure in their respective properties, or tenants of buildings or structures who intend to do some renovations, should also apply for locational clearance prior to getting a building permit.

 

Alonzo said a locational clearance can be released in three days if requirements are completed and no site inspection is necessary. However, if site verification is necessary, it will take three to four days to be released. For other cases, the period of transaction for the said clearance depends on how soon the applicant can comply with the necessary documents.

 

On the other hand, the individual mayor’s permit for workers or employees is released within the day. Locational clearance is set at P200 while individual mayor’s permit is only P50.

 

“Just the same, we process business permits within two to three days. On some occasions, as expected, it takes longer when applicants need to get a locational clearance first or complete the requirements. But we release it immediately upon completion of the necessary documents,” Alonzo said.

 

Alonzo added that at present, they have not received any report about fixers taking advantage of business permit applicants, contrary to rumors. “Right now, I have not heard of any concern regarding fixers for business permits here at city hall. At any rate, we encourage the public to report such incidents to us directly so we can take appropriate action,” Alonzo said.

 

“Aside from the policies and guidelines set by the International Organization for Standardization, we likewise strictly abide by ARTA or the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 as this ensures efficiency in the delivery of government frontline services, including issuance of business permits,” he said.

 

Concerned citizens are encouraged to reach the BPLO at 870-1325

 

For business and other permits, applications and checklist of requirements can be downloaded from the Makati City government’s official website. Forms are also available at the BPLO located at the ground floor of the Makati City Hall Building 2.