By William Agda
Cities and municipalities across the Caraga Region launched Business One-Stop Shops (BOSS) on Thursday to facilitate business renewals and registrations as the new year begins.
In Butuan City, the City Business Permits and Licensing Department (CBPLD) has set up a dedicated BOSS area at Robinsons Place to streamline transactions. The initiative will run until January 31, 2025, offering a centralized venue for business owners to renew permits and pay required fees.
The City Information Office urged all business owners to take advantage of the streamlined process at the mall-based facility. Apart from CBPLD personnel, representatives from various government offices are on-site to assist in processing renewals and registrations.
According to official city data, business registrations in Butuan City have steadily grown over the past five years. In 2020, 12,971 business permits were registered, increasing to 13,357 in 2021, 14,504 in 2022, and 16,413 in 2023. By November 2024, the city recorded 17,994 registered businesses, indicating a consistent upward trend.
Under Ordinance 7160-2024, Butuan City business owners can renew their permits and settle taxes and fees without penalties until March 31, 2025.
Similar BOSS setups have been rolled out in other cities and municipalities in the region, reflecting adherence to Republic Act 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act. This law mandates simplified processes to reduce expenses and eliminate procedural bottlenecks for the public.