Biz Sector Seeks Extension for Mayor’s Permit Processing

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – The Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) is requesting an extension to process its business permits.

MBCCI Chief Executive Officer said Friday that MBCCI President Atty. Juliana Carbon wrote a formal letter to Bacolod City Acting Mayor El Cid Familiaran, seeking an extension.

Carbon said the MBCCI is requesting Familiaran to extend the processing of the Mayor’s permit and payment of the first-quarter business tax until March 31, 2025.

He pointed out that the Mayor’s permit filing coincides with Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requirements, making compliance more challenging.

“We need more time to comply,” he said.

Carbon also noted that the requirements of the Office of the Building Official, Fire Department, and City Health Office are “voluminous.”

“I hope the Anti-Red Tape Authority could simplify their processing and reduce documental requirements,” he said.

He explained that voluminous records refer to taxpayer-maintained records that are so numerous and extensive that requiring their submission and review by the Department would not be practical due to time, space, and logistical constraints.

Earlier, the Bacolod City Council approved an extension of the Business One-Stop-Shop (BOSS) and the deadline for the payment of business taxes, fees, and charges until Feb. 15, 2025, at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC).

Familiaran said he requested the City Council to pass a resolution extending the deadline for filing business permits and licenses for 2025.

He added that business owners will receive a 10% discount for one-time payments made between Jan. 1 and 20, 2025. Payments made from Jan. 21 to Feb. 15, 2025, will be accepted without penalty but will not qualify for a discount.