By CESAR JOLITO III
The Bacolod City government will open its Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) starting today until January 20, in the lobby of the Bacolod City Government Center, which aims to streamline business registration and renewal for thousands of local entrepreneurs in the city.
Led by the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), the initiative brings together key city offices in a single venue to fast-track the processing of business requirements.
Through BOSS, applicants can secure fire inspection certificates, sanitation inspection certificates, building permits, and occupancy permits without the need to visit multiple offices.
BPLO head Stela Rose Rayos said the city expects strong participation from business owners, noting that the consolidated system significantly reduces processing time and inconvenience.
Business owners who settle their business tax obligations in full during the BOSS period will receive a 10 percent discount on business tax, excluding regulatory fees.
Aside from on-site services, applications may also be filed online through the city’s Electronic Business Permits and Licensing System (EBPLS) at ebpls.bacolodcity.gov.ph.
City personnel will be stationed at the government center to assist applicants who are unfamiliar with online transactions.
Satellite offices — including the Bacolod Express Service Office at Ayala Malls Capitol Central and the Government Services Express at SM City Bacolod — will continue to process assessments, payments and the issuance of sanitary and health permits.
Mayor Greg Gasataya earlier authorized the early acceptance of business applications to ease the transition ahead of the BOSS opening.
Rayos said applicants who availed of advance processing may track their application status through the electronic system and proceed to the City Treasurer’s Office – License Division once all clearances are completed.
BPLO data show that 24,912 businesses were registered in Bacolod City in 2025.
Participating agencies in the BOSS include the City Health Office, City Planning and Development Office – Zoning Division, Office of the Building Official, Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office, City Tourism Office, City Cooperative and Livelihood Development Office, City Department of Agriculture, City Veterinary Office, Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department, and the Bureau of Fire Protection./CJ, WDJ