Quezon City Hall (Photo courtesy of the Quezon City government)
Quezon City reports that more than 84 percent of small businesses assisted through its Pangkabuhayang QC (PBQC) livelihood program remain operational, as applications open for the next round of support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Applications for PBQC Phase 6 (Batch 1) are open from June 1 to 15 through the QC eServices portal.
Launched in 2021, PBQC provides capital assistance, entrepreneurship training, and business development support to residents affected by job displacement and economic disruptions as part of the city’s post-pandemic recovery efforts.
City data showed that 84.67 percent of supported businesses remain operational, with more than 70,000 QCitizens having benefited since the program’s rollout.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said the program’s success is reflected in the long-term sustainability of enterprises supported under the initiative.
“The success of Pangkabuhayang QC is not measured by how many received capital assistance, but by how many were able to sustain and strengthen their livelihoods over time. This program is about sustainability. We don’t stop at one-time aid; we stay with them as they grow, especially now when many families are facing rising costs and economic uncertainty,” Belmonte said.
Eligible beneficiaries include food and non-food micro enterprises such as carinderias, sari-sari stores, coffee shops, beauty salons, and other small-scale businesses.
The city has integrated the Nano Enterprise Permit into the latest phase of the program, which will be required prior to the release of financial assistance for approved applicants.
Micro entrepreneurs must submit at least one proof of business, including a DTI Business Name Registration, city or mayor’s permit, BIR Certificate of Registration, SEC registration, or a Nano Enterprise Permit, if applicable.
Vendors are required to present a valid hawker’s or market permit issued by the city’s Market Development and Administration Department.
For QCitizens without existing businesses, alternative requirements include a PWD ID, Solo Parent ID, or certification from the Public Employment Service Office or the QC Migrant Resource Center for returning overseas Filipino workers.
The program is implemented by the Quezon City Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office, which continues to position PBQC as one of the city’s key livelihood initiatives, combining capital support with training, mentoring, and access to business networks.