Published on: June 05, 2023 | Written By: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

May 30-31, 2023 | Embracing President Marcos’ dedication to enhancing the nation’s socio-economic agenda and bolstering global competitiveness, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX organized the Roll-Out on Streamlining Building Permits and Certificates of Occupancy (BPCO) held in Hotel Guillermo, Pagadian City.

The main goal of the event was to empower LGU officials to effectively implement and put into action the guidelines specified in the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-01. This circular, a collaborative effort between the DILG, ARTA, DPWH, DICT, DTI, PRC, and BFP, seeks to streamline the criteria for granting building permits and certificates of occupancy, making the process more efficient and seamless.

The circular sets forth guidelines with the aim of streamlining the procedural intricacies and embracing the scope of applications and processing time mandated by Republic Act No. 11032. This legislative framework strives to boost effectiveness and diminish excessive bureaucracy by simplifying the LGU procedures associated with granting construction permits and certificates. It aligns with the provisions of the National Building Code of the Philippines (PD 1096 s, 1997) and its corresponding Implementing Rules and Regulations, ensuring a more efficient and harmonized process.

This activity united a diverse array of stakeholders, comprising building officials, zoning officers, assessors, city/municipal treasurers, and BFP fire marshals. These individuals assume critical responsibilities in the issuance and administration of building permits and certificates of occupancy within their respective local government units, thus shaping the landscape of construction regulations and approvals in their communities.

Distinguished speakers, such as Pagadian City Fire Marshal CINSP Jasmin S. Tanog and Architect Ma. Concepcion Alvarez-Alcantara from the Assistant Office of the Building Official from Cagayan de Oro City, graced the occasion. Their wealth of expertise and extensive background offered participants invaluable perspectives and hands-on wisdom.

Enthusiastic involvement was observed from Local Government Units (LGUs) across the region, with representatives from RT Lim, Ipil, Baliguian, Rizal, Tambulig, Dinas, Bayog, and Kumalarang actively participating in the roll-out. The vibrant participation of these LGUs clearly demonstrates their dedication to improving service delivery and fostering a thriving atmosphere for business growth and development within their respective areas.

By embracing the guidelines set forth in the revised JMC, LGUs have the power to cultivate an environment that welcomes business ventures with open arms. In doing so, they can slash processing time, enhance transparency, and fortify accountability when it comes to granting building permits and certificates of occupancy. These endeavors align with the larger objective of boosting the nation’s standing in global competitiveness evaluations, ultimately enticing both domestic and international investments that serve as engines propelling economic progress.

The event became a pivotal gathering, fostering collaboration and the exchange of knowledge among LGU functionaires. This significant event underscored the essence of harmonious teamwork between diverse government bodies and LGUs, thereby championing the cause of delivering public services that are both effective and efficient.

The DILG stands unwavering in its dedication to empowering LGUs as they strive to foster a conducive atmosphere for enterprises, maintain the integrity of legal principles, and attain sustainable progress that enriches the lives of every Filipino.