BAGUIO CITY -- The city government of this Summer Capital has declared its readiness to partner with key business and tourism leaders in its bid to restore its vitality and trigger economic growth which was derailed by the pandemic.

This after the city planning and development office, in coordination with the Baguio Tourism Council, hosted a two-hour consultation intended to find reasonable procedures for a business-friendly regulatory framework.

The city government is hoping these procedures would be more aligned with Baguio’s strategic goals of achieving a sustainable carrying capacity in key aspects of city life.

The meeting was held on Thursday (March 31) with businessmen and sectoral representatives in attendance.

Mayor Benjie Magalong led the city officials in explaining the requirements to process new and renewal applications under the strengthened regulatory framework developed by the city planning and development office headed by Architect Donna Tabangin.

“Applicants for renewal have only to submit the required support documents for the process to be completed in 15 minutes,” said Mayor Magalong.

The city government’s year-round drive for business-friendly regulations gained deeper understanding from business and tourism leaders whom city officials involved in zoning and permit issuances engaged in consultation.

New applicants will be routinely inspected to align the business with zonal categories prescribed in an identified location.

Those operating in danger zones will be required to submit an undertaking to relocate within one year under a provisional authority.

“A favorable business climate is our larger goal as part of re-growing the local economy, making accessible opportunities for jobs and livelihood. But the government alone cannot succeed without the private sector, the engines of growth, doing their role,” explained Magalong.

“Thank you all for making time in improving the ways forward in recovering lost economic gains and in inducing more investments for new businesses, viable jobs and growth access for our people,” he said.

Mgalong assured the business groups of strategic solutions to make Baguio better, under good governance beyond politics.

“Baguio has gone way past its carrying capacity as a livable city,” he stressed, pointing out the need for shared solidarity in winning over challenges the city faces.