El Nido LGU determined to counter ‘red tape’ in permits issuance

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By Melba P. Daganta

The local government of El Nido is exerting all possible effort to counter the ‘red tape’ in issuing business or mayor’s permit in their town, this according to Bernie Bero, Chief of Permits & Licensing Division, in an interview with Palawan News.

“Aware naman po tayo [Ma’am] sa order ni President Duterte, saka nasa ARTA Law naman po ‘yan kaya sinisikap natin na sundin. Basta naman po kumpleto sa requirements, saka andyan si Mayor, kaya po nang isang araw,” Beru said.

However, Bero explained, there are some instances that the process still tend to be “longer” particularly if the business application involves possible environmental impacts.

“Alam n’yo naman po na ang El Nido ay protected area, kaya kapag may impact sa kalikasan ang isang business halimbawa, kinakailangan pang dumaan sa Protected Area Management Board, so minsan ‘yun po ang nagpapatagal,” he added.

“Minsan naman po nagkakaroon ng problema sa renewal. Kasi ‘yung iba kapag na-isyuhan na ng permit, ang gagawin saka magpapagawa ng extension ng building. Kapag nakita sa inspection, doon nagkakaroon ng problema,” Bero further said.

There are currently around 1,300 business establishments in El Nido town. If other businesses like transport and those involving skilled workers are also considered, there are about 2,500 persons/business establishments that are expected to comply with permitting requirements this year.

“So far naman, nasa 90% ang compliance,” Bero said. He added that they are targeting 100% compliance before February ends. The local officer further advised all concerned parties to comply with all the requirements to ensure the legality of their business operations.