By CESAR JOLITO III

An additional 17 business establishments were ordered closed as part of the Bacolod City government’s continuing crackdown on enterprises operating without proper permits.

The closures were carried out by the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) together with the City Legal Office’s (CLO) Enforcement Team on Tuesday, September 2.

Authorities said the establishments had previously been issued formal notices to secure the required documents but failed to comply.

BPLO said the operations followed mapping inspections that prompted the issuance of notices to these businesses, urging them to rectify their compliance status.

According to the BPLO, more than 100 other establishments are still being monitored for operating without business permits.

City officials warned that non-compliant businesses will face similar closure orders if they do not process their permits.

Businesses previously closed have the opportunity to reopen upon securing the necessary permits.

The BPLO and CLO have warned that any business resuming operations without proper permits may face additional sanctions.

Establishments receiving a second notice of violation must voluntarily suspend operations and comply with requirements within 15 days while awaiting permit issuance.

Meanwhile, Mayor Greg Gasataya has addressed the business community, encouraging owners to report any irregularities encountered during the compliance process.

The CLO has also extended an offer to engage in dialogue with business owners, providing assistance and legal advice to facilitate compliance with local government regulations.

“We are here to support our business community. We encourage business owners to come forward with any concerns,” Gasataya said.

Last week, the city government shut down six establishments for the same violation.

Officials stressed that the campaign aims to ensure fairness among business operators and compliance with local regulations./CJ, WDJ