May 2025 is Ease of Doing Business Month
In the Philippines' evolving business landscape, the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018 (RA 11032) is a crucial law designed to streamline government transactions nationwide, by mandating faster processing times, promoting online platforms like eBOSS and the CBP, ensuring transparency through Citizen's Charters, and empowering businesses with rights to efficient service, ultimately fostering a more conducive environment for growth and reducing bureaucratic red tape.
This landmark legislation isn't just about making things a little easier; it's a fundamental shift in how the Philippine government interacts with its citizens and businesses. By mandating simplification, standardization, and automation across all government offices, agencies, and GOCCs, RA 11032 aims to unlock economic potential and foster a more conducive environment for growth. Let's unpack the key elements of this crucial law and how it empowers you.
Key Pillars of RA 11032: Your Rights to Efficient Service
Mandated Processing Timelines: RA 11032 sets clear deadlines for government actions. Section 6 mandates that simple transactions must be acted upon within three (3) working days, complex transactions within seven (7) working days, and highly technical applications within twenty (20) working days. This provides a benchmark for expected turnaround times, fostering predictability in your dealings with government.
Automatic Approval: Your Safety Net: Perhaps one of the most empowering provisions is the automatic approval mechanism. Section 7 stipulates that if a government agency fails to approve or disapprove a complete application within the prescribed timeframe, and all required documents have been submitted with complete fees paid, the application is deemed automatically approved. This holds agencies accountable and prevents undue delays from stifling your progress.
The Power of One-Stop Shops: eBOSS and CBP: RA 11032 champions efficiency through centralized platforms. Section 11 mandates all cities and municipalities to establish an Electronic Business One-Stop Shop (eBOSS) within three years of the law's effectivity to centralize business permits and licenses. Building on this, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) is now actively pushing for full automation of these business systems by all LGUs by 2028, aiming for a completely digital and seamless experience. At the national level, the Central Business Portal (CBP), managed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) as per Section 12, serves as a unified online platform for various business-related transactions.
Transparency Through Citizen's Charters: Every government agency is required to establish and prominently display its Citizen's Charter, as detailed in Section 5. This document outlines services, procedures, requirements, fees, responsible personnel, and crucially, the maximum processing time. This empowers you with the information you need and the standards to expect.
Cutting the Red Tape: The Zero Contact Policy: To combat potential corruption and streamline interactions, Section 8 of RA 11032 promotes a "Zero Contact Policy," limiting direct interaction with government officers to initial assessments and requirement evaluations. This encourages digital and more transparent communication channels.
Data Sharing for Efficiency: The Philippine Business Databank (PBD): By establishing a centralized database of registered businesses (Philippine Business Databank or PBD), RA 11032, through Section 13, aims to reduce redundant information requests, allowing government agencies to access necessary data more efficiently.
The Watchdog: The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA): RA 11032 reinforces ARTA's role as the central authority overseeing the implementation of the law, monitoring agency compliance, and driving continuous improvements in government service delivery, as outlined in Section 17.
Aboveboard: Your Partner in Navigating Philippine Regulation
At Aboveboard, we are dedicated to empowering Filipino businesses with the knowledge and support they need to thrive. Understanding and leveraging laws like RA 11032 is key to efficient operations and sustainable growth. If you need assistance in navigating government processes, understanding your rights under the Ease of Doing Business Law, or ensuring your business is compliant, our team is here to provide expert guidance.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance on your business's situation, consult with a legal or regulatory expert familiar with Philippine law and the latest pronouncements from the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and other relevant government agencies.
ARTA launches first “Ease of Doing Business Month” to boost efficient governance