The City Government uses the electronic Business One-Stop Shop (eBOSS) system, which aims to streamline and simplify the process of obtaining permits and licenses through online platforms.
“With this digital transformation, the City is confident that this will encourage more investors to do business in the city of Lapu-Lapu. Because they are assured that securing a business permit is now made easy and convenient,” Chan said Monday, May 15, 2023.
Lapu-Lapu City was recently recognized by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (Arta) as one of eight local government units (LGUs) in the country with a functioning and effective eBOSS system.
The recognition came after the Compliance Monitoring and Evaluation Office and the Arta Regional Field Office-Eastern Visayas verified Lapu-Lapu City’s compliance in incorporating the eBOSS into the City Government’s system.
Arta Director General Ernesto Perez personally presented the Certificate of Commendation to Chan last Friday, May 12.
Applying for a business permit in Lapu-Lapu City previously took about half a week to process, as business owners had to obtain the barangay business clearance from their respective barangays, Chan said.
“But with the eBOSS they can have their permits in half a day to one day,” Chan said, however noting that the processing may depend on the stability of one’s internet connection.
Chan said the implementation of eBOSS has made it easier for businessmen to apply for business permits from the comfort of their homes or offices.
Lapu-Lapu City Government’s digital transformation began in July 2021. The online services available at that time were limited to application and payment for business permits, and these were accessible through a web link.
“It wasn’t full automation yet. It was only this year that full automation was launched in which the taxpayer can apply, pay and print permits online,” Chan said.
The current online application is specifically for business permits, but Chan said they are exploring the idea of extending online services to other permits, such as locational, zoning, building and more.
“With this digital transformation, the City is confident that it will encourage more investors to do business in Lapu-Lapu City because they can now easily obtain a business permit (reducing red tape) through the convenient eBOSS system,” Chan said.
Ease of doing business
Under Republic Act 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business Law, all LGUs are mandated to implement eBOSS.
Perez said Friday that more LGUs should follow Lapu-Lapu City’s example.
According to Arta, the LGUs that have already received this recognition include cities of Parañaque, Valenzuela, Marikina, Manila, Muntinlupa, Quezon and Navotas.
Arta said eBOSS must have a unified application form, online uploading of required documents, integration of barangay clearance and fire safety inspection certificate, issuance of electronic tax bills or orders of payment, issuance of a valid electronic permit with the same level of authority as the hard copy, integrated online payment, and a link connecting to a physical courier for delivering permits.