BY GLORIA LEODIVICA INES ARANETA
Tagbilaran City has taken another step toward simpler business registration and permitting after signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on November 11.
The agreement provides for the integration of the DTI Business Name Registration System (BNRS) with the city’s Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS).
It links the national business name registration system with the city’s local permitting process.
This paves the way for better coordination between the two agencies and a more convenient registration experience for entrepreneurs.
With the signing, Tagbilaran became the first local government unit in Bohol to formalize a systems integration partnership with DTI.
Mayor Jane Yap and City Business Permits and Licensing Office Head Mary Christine Montalban signed the agreement on behalf of the city.
They signed in the presence of DTI Assistant Secretary Kris Ablan, who represented DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, and Business Name Registration Division Chief PJ Roque.
Under the partnership, the integration of BNRS and BPLS is expected to bridge the process between registering a business name and securing the corresponding local business permit.
It aims to make business registration more coordinated, reduce procedural gaps, and ease the requirements entrepreneurs need to navigate when establishing their businesses.
Mayor Yap said the agreement reflects the city’s continuing efforts to make doing business in Tagbilaran easier and more accessible, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
She emphasized that simplifying government transactions is essential to encouraging entrepreneurship, supporting existing businesses, and attracting new investments to the city.
By working closely with national agencies, the city aims to make business registration less burdensome so entrepreneurs can focus more on growing their enterprises and creating economic opportunities.
The city’s participation forms part of the continuing efforts of the Yap-Jala Administration to create a more supportive business environment.
It also aims to expand opportunities for local enterprises and strengthen partnerships with national government agencies in promoting inclusive economic growth.