The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has initiated a program that aims to rationalize the fees and charges in the Zamboanga Peninsula local government units (LGUs) to reasonable levels. In partnership with the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), the DILG Region IX Office stressed that the main objective of the initiative is to “offer valuable guidance to LGUs’’ in creating a consistent procedure for determining reasonable rates, ensuring the recovery of costs, and fostering a business-friendly atmosphere. The DILG noted that the program also targets to provide the LGUs with the essential knowledge and abilities to optimize their fee and charge systems to enable them to create a business-friendly environment while ensuring the recovery of service costs provided to the public. Additionally, the DILG emphasized that the training aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of local treasurers, BPLO personnel, budget officers and SB committee members, empowering them to fulfill their roles more effectively within the LGUs. Specifically, the training sessions are tailored for individuals holding positions such as local treasurers, BPLO personnel, budget officers, and members of relevant committees within the Sangguaniang Bayan (SB). During the training, distinguished speakers from the BLGF IX, renowned for their expertise in local fees and charges, were invited to share their valuable insights and experiences with the participants. “Allan Luy and Perlita Hernandez, esteemed representatives of the BLGF, provided guidance and imparted their knowledge, enabling the LGUs to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in fee rationalization and the effective utilization of the Local Fees and Charges (LFC) Toolkit. Their expertise served as a valuable resource for the participants in navigating the intricacies of fee management and optimizing the benefits offered by the LFC Toolkit,’’ the DILG said in a statement. The focal point of the training was the inclusive workshop centered around the LFC Toolkit, which delved into Local Fees and Charges. During this hands-on session, the participants actively participated in various activities, acquainting themselves with the LFC Toolkit and grasping its application to their respective LGUs. By actively engaging in this interactive workshop, attendees acquire the essential abilities and assurance to amend their fee and charge frameworks, effectively considering both financial feasibility and the facilitation of business operations. This training session represented  the culmination of the specific Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Capacity Development activities of DILG IX for 2023 as it showcased the dedication of the department in empowering the LGUs and enhancing their ability to cultivate a business-friendly atmosphere. By providing LGUs with the essential knowledge and resources to streamline fees and charges,the DILG asserted that the program contributes to the broader objective of enhancing the ease of doing business within the region. “The training represents a crucial stride towards cultivating a friendlier business environment. By advocating for a standardized process in determining fair rates that cover service costs while prioritizing the ease of conducting business, the LGUs of Sominot, Gutalac, and RT Lim can establish an appealing investment atmosphere that brings benefits to local entrepreneurs and the wider community. The DILG and BLGF are resolute in their dedication to assisting LGUs and will persist in delivering capacity development initiatives to bolster local governance and stimulate economic progress,’’ the DILG added.