A NEGRENSE lawmaker is pushing for a longer period of building rental payment for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Bacolod City during the implementation of modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

Lone District of Bacolod Representative Greg Gasataya, during the 2021 National Budget hearing of the House Committee on Appropriations last week, told Department of Trade (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez that small businesses need assistance for the industry to cope during this coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

Gasataya, the committee vice chairman, said MSMEs in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental were asking for help as some building owners are reportedly not complying with DTI Memorandum Circular providing for a 30-day minimum grace period in rental payment in places under MECQ and general community quarantine (GCQ).

Lopez has assured that their agency will give attention to the problems of the MSMEs, the congressman, on his Facebook page, said.

"The Memorandum Circular stated that the total rental fees after the grace period will be collected within six months and not in a one-time payment," he added.

Gasataya also urged the DTI to extend, if possible, the monthly amortization for one year to lessen the adverse effects of the pandemic to the MSMEs in areas under MECQ like Bacolod City.