Manila: The local government of Iloilo City is targeting a business permit renewal rate between 75 percent and 80 percent for 2026. This goal applies to the 19,705 establishments that are legally operating in the city as of 2025.

According to Philippines News Agency, Velma Jane Lao, head of the Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office, reported that they registered 2,018 new businesses last year. Additionally, 16,650 businesses renewed their permits, while 1,037 establishments paid but had deficiencies. Lao emphasized the functioning of the Electronic Business One Stop Shop, which includes offsite centers at Festive Walk, Marry Mart Mall, SM City, Atrium, Iloilo City Business Center, and City Hall. 'All sites are working. They can also go online,' she stated.

A significant enhancement this year is the integration of 169 barangays into the Integrated Business Permits and Licensing System (IBPLS). This integration allows businesses to secure clearances from a central processing center rather than their respective barangay halls. Lao noted that securing permits is now faster, with transactions ranging from 20 minutes to one hour, depending on the location. Specifically, transactions average 20 minutes at the Atrium, 30 minutes at the Marry Mart Mall and Festive Walk, and one hour at SM City Iloilo, Iloilo City Business Center, and City Hall.

Lao also mentioned ongoing efforts to improve the system, aiming to send original copies of business permits and receipts directly to establishments. Currently, business owners must retrieve these documents from City Hall. 'We're getting there,' she assured.

In related developments, Mayor Raisa Tre±as has endorsed a proposed amendment to Tax Ordinance No. 2007-016, also known as the Local Revenue Code of Iloilo City. This amendment, presented to the Sangguniang Panlungsod, seeks to extend the deadline for business permit renewals from January 20 to January 31 without penalties.