Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Secretary Ernesto Perez
MANILA – To further improve the country's ease of doing business, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Buklod Bayani Coalition (BBC).
The agreement finalized on March 5 at the office of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) in Taguig City will actively involve private sector stakeholders in ensuring efficiency in the permitting and licensing processes of businesses and addressing red tape concerns down to the localities.
BBC is a coalition of business groups in the country led by PCCI, Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Philippine Exporters Confederation, International Chamber of Commerce - Philippines and the Rotary Club of Makati Central Foundation.
Under the agreement, they are expected to work hand-in-hand in the promotion of ARTA's ease of doing business initiatives and programs with the help of the DILG in ensuring compliance and coordination of local government units (LGUs).
"Today we have the privilege of reaffirming these agreements with both our esteemed secretaries present in one hall. I stress that their offices [ARTA and DILG] play equally vital roles in realizing our business friendly and investor ready Philippines," BBC secretary general Roberto Alvarez.
BBC pledged to promote the administration's brand of governance, "Bagong Pilipinas" (New Philippines), specifically on business-related concerns.
The group also vowed to establish a hotline system where business enterprises could channel their inquiries and concerns, and could be relayed fast to DILG, ARTA and other government agencies.
Relying on DILG's access to LGUs, ARTA will extend technical and other related forms of assistance to the BBC and its programs, projects, and activities, with the overall aim of attracting investors and developing an ecosystem conducive to businesses.
"I am filled with optimism as we stand united in this purpose. Together with dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision, we will transform the business climate, unleashing the economic might of the Philippines and contributing significantly to the rise of Bagong Pilipinas," ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez said. (PR/PNA)
