Online biz registry launched

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has launched the Philippine Business Registry (PBRS), a web-based business registration system which aims to streamline business registration process and eliminate red tape.

The registry will serve as a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs who need to transact with several agencies to be able to start operating a business. These include the DTI, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Social Security System, Home Development Mutual Fund, Philippine Health and Insurance Corporation and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

"Through the PBRS, applicants do not need to physically go to each agency to register their businesses since they will now be interlinked via the PBRS," DTI explained, adding that companies may either opt to apply from their homes through their personal computers or go to the nearest DTI office and register through PBRS kiosks or tellers.

Application through a teller will also only involve the submission of a filled-up application form, which can already be downloaded from the website. "The PBRS provides a one-stop-shop, whether online or at a single office: A process that once would have taken days could now be accomplished in a matter of minutes."

Local government units with streamlined business permits and licensing system such as Bacolod and other highly-urbanized cities are expected to be linked with PBRS in the following months. The registry's kiosks will also be installed in selected LGUs to facilitate registration in far-flung towns.

"This system aims to establish a fully secure national business registry database which will integrate information from different government agencies and facilitate seamless transactions among agencies by providing a single window for online business registration across agencies," the DTI said.

With fewer steps and faster process, PBRS will be able to strengthen government's effort to provide quality service and realize its commitment to curb corruption and reduce red tape in the bureaucracy. "Through the PBR, we will become more attractive to investors and will improve our ranking in global competitiveness."

The system also aims to provide a level playing field for investors and entrepreneurs since both small and medium enterprises as well as corporations will find it easier to set up shop.