The City Government of Bacolod is launching its annual Business One-Stop-Shop (BOSS) initiative to help local entrepreneurs kickstart the new year. The event is scheduled to begin on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC).
Streamlining Business Registration and Renewal
This centralized service is designed to simplify the often complex process of applying for and renewing business permits. Stella Rose Rayos, the head of the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), confirmed that the BOSS will utilize both the lobby and the second floor of the BCGC. The service for obtaining barangay clearances will be available at this location until January 20, 2026.
Rayos expressed strong optimism that the streamlined system will encourage a high number of business owners to formalize or renew their operations this year. She highlighted a significant incentive: business owners who pay their fees in full are eligible for a 10 percent discount on their business tax. It is important to note that this discount applies only to the business tax and not to any separate regulatory fees.
Multi-Agency Support and Convenient Access Points
The BOSS is not limited to the BPLO. To provide comprehensive service, several other key city departments and national agencies will have representatives on-site. Participating entities include:
- City Health Office (CHO)
- City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) Zoning Division
- Office of the Building Official
- Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (Benro)
- City Tourism Office
- Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
- Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department (BTTMD)
- City Cooperative and Livelihood Development Office
- City Department of Agriculture
- City Veterinary Office
Rayos emphasized that services are accessible through two primary channels. Applicants can use the online portal at ebpls.bacolodcity.gov.ph or visit in person. For those who are less comfortable with digital platforms, on-site staff will be ready to provide assistance. Furthermore, the city's satellite offices will continue their operations. These include the Bacolod Express Service Office in Ayala Malls Capitol Central and the Government Services Express in SM City Mall Bacolod, which handle assessment, payments, and the issuance of sanitary and health permits.
Tracking Applications and Early Preparation
For business owners who have already started their application process early, Rayos provided clear guidance. They can monitor their application status using the electronic tracking system to check for any pending clearances. Once all clearances are secured, the final step is to proceed to the City Treasurer’s Office–License Division for the official assessment and payment.
The push for an efficient start to the business year follows a memorandum issued by Mayor Greg Gasataya, which allowed the early acceptance of business registrations in preparation for the BOSS rollout. The initiative builds on a solid foundation, as BPLO records indicate that a total of 24,912 businesses were registered in Bacolod City in 2025.
