CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has established this city in its Hall of Fame after it was named anew this year as the “Most Business Friendly Local Government Unit,” the 6th time since 2009.
Mayor Edwin Santiago noted that this city had won the award thrice up to 2010. “After this, the City of San Fernando went into hiatus in the competition for three years to give way for other aspiring local government units. Then San Fernando was again successively named Most Business Friendly Local Government Unit starting 2014 up to this year,” he noted.
Santiago reported that “to date, the processing time for registration of new business is pegged at only 22 minutes and only 19 minutes for renewal.” “With a government system that is free from red tape, and one that promotes transparency and accountability, investors and entrepreneurs are attracted into putting in their money into the city” he added.
At present, a total of 8,987 registered businesses are operating in the city. The entry of more light and medium-scale industries has likewise boosted further the city’s financial status, the mayor said.
“This is a testament to the city government’s institutionalized programs not only to serve the public better but to become globally competitive” said Santiago.
Pres. Duterte handed out the award to him during the culmination of the 42nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo in Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City before the President left for official visits to Brunei and China.
The Most Business-Friendly LGU is a yearly search for the local governments that provide the best environment for businesses. Cities and municipalities are judged on six criteria, namely, trade, investments and tourism promotion; public-private sector partnership; medium, small and micro enterprise development; quality management systems; innovations and human resource development; and quality customer service and local government collaboration.
“Our Internal systems that promote the ease of doing business and accountability are in place within the organization” added Santiago.
Santiago also noted that “San Fernando also received a high evaluation from its clients and stakeholders. Based on the Report Card Survey of the Civil Service Commission last August, a fi nal rating of 89.85% was given to the city; this is the highest in Pampanga.”
“This award is a collective effort of everyone, and we would like to dedicate it to the Fernandinos. We will not stop here and we will continue to aim for excellence in public service,” he added.
Aside from the recognition, PCCI is funding the construction of a new school building in the city.
–CSFP-CIO
