Published on: December 03, 2023 | Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

Zamboanga Peninsula – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX played an active role in the 2023 Audit of LGU Compliance on Ease of Doing Business (EODB) conducted from November 09-15, 2023. The audit covered key areas, including Zamboanga City, Molave, Pagadian City, Dipolog City, Dapitan City, and Ipil. 

The main goal of the initiative was to assess the degree to which Local Government Units (LGUs) adhered to the guidelines outlined in the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery (EODB-EGSD) Act of 2018, commonly referred to as RA 11032. This law is designed to enhance and simplify government transactions and services, fostering a business-friendly environment by improving overall efficiency.

The audit centered on three primary goals: verifying the accuracy of compliance reports submitted by LGUs through the Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) and the online monitoring system known as Business Permit and Licensing Certification Online (BPCO), tackling  specific pertinent issues and concerns, and offering technical support based on the findings of the audit.  

The examination was conducted by individuals from the Committee on Anti-Red Tape Authority (CART) and the Regulatory Reform Team (RRT). This evaluation included firsthand observations of the operational procedures within LGU offices, focusing specifically on the Business Process Licensing Office (BPLO) and the Office of the Building Official (OBO). 

The Bureau of Local Government Development (BLGD) Team, headed by Assistant Division Chief Belinda Castro, conducted audits in Zamboanga City, Molave, and Pagadian City, with support from Project Officers Winnie Chelle Addatu and Mark Royce Miralles, as well as the involvement of Regional and Provincial Focal Persons. Likewise, Dipolog City, Dapitan City, and Ipil underwent audits led by their respective Provincial Focal Persons. 

DILG IX remains unwavering in its dedication to fostering a conducive business environment. Through endeavors such as the 2023 EODB Audit, the Department persistently engages with LGUs to tackle obstacles and improve the overall business-friendly landscape in the region.