Conflicting local policies aired

LOCAL CHAPTERS of a business chamber have expressed concern over policies and practices that hinder business activities at the local level, officials said in a business conference on Friday, even as the government has called for close coordination with officials to iron out differences.

Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo, keynote speaker at the 19th Metro Manila Business Conference, said the chambers should coordinate with their respective local government units (LGUs) on negotiating for the withdrawal of redundant and inconvenient ordinances.

“The DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) can help in addressing these issues, but maybe each chamber can also work with the local government units within their jurisdiction so these can be resolved quickly,” he added.

The businessmen noted several requirement imposed by LGUs in doing business.

“In Pasay [city], for example, there is an ordinance where delivery vans are charged for passing through their area if they do not have a sticker from the local government,” Antonio C. Keh, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) chairman and vice-president for Metro Manila, said during the open forum.

Other cities and municipalities within and beyond Metro Manila also have this practice, affirmed PCCI north sector trustee Danilo A. Sanchez.

“Other provinces and cities do that as well, even in Batangas,” he added.

No such law, however, mandates local government units (LGUs) to require registration of passing delivery vans, said Mr. Robredo

“There is no need to charge them for merely passing through, and stickers are only required for delivery vans operating within the city,” Mr. Robredo noted in addressing the complaints.

The businessmen also noted the inconsistency among LGUs in requesting for a certificate of compliance to prove the cleanliness and efficiency of a vehicle’s combustion system.

“The fact that your van has been registered should be proof that it has passed the smoke belching test because it is a requirement for the registration,” Mr. Robredo explained.

“There is no need for a separate certificate of compliance from the Department of Environment,” he added. — EJD, Businessworld