Friday, August 17, 2007 Dad seeks strict implementation of guidelines for new businesses By Grace L. Plata
GUIDELINES prior to the issuance of business permits should be strictly implemented especially on new businesses, said City Councilor Arnolfo Ricardo Cabling in the wake of problems faced by the council on applications for land use reclassification.
Cabling said with the one-stop shop policy of the City Government where business permits are issued, and even the zoning clearance is still pending, poses as a problem.
"There are other businessmen who do not know that having a business permit does not mean they can already put up their building. They have to get the zoning clearance, which says the site they have chosen is apt for their type of business. Then they also get a building permit from the city engineer, which certifies their building plans are safe. The zoning clearance and the building permit are supposedly two of the requirements for the business permit," Cabling said.
With this kind of practice where permits are granted, where the area is still to be checked, placed the council in a dilemma too many times as some business have already put up building only to find out that their lots are not classified under those for industrial use.
Cabling suggested that the City Council on trade, commerce and industry look into the matter to make sure the new business that apply for permits must be have all certifications needed before being issued a permit.
"Walang problema (There is no problem) with existing businesses, which have already complied with the requirements, for they can easily renew through the one stop shop policy. But those who have yet to start the businesses, it is much better that they have a separate application process to avoid problems in the future," Cabling said.
