The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) is working with other government agencies to make the Philippines a more attractive investment destination, especially as global manufacturers seek new hubs following the U.S. imposition of reciprocal tariffs.
“Hinahanda na natin iyong Pilipinas na magkaroon ng business friendly environment,” Anti-Red Tape Authority Director General Secretary Ernesto Perez said in a press briefing in Malacañang.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed on March 4, 2025 Proclamation No. 818 declaring the Month of May as the Ease of Doing Business Month.
“The goal is simple: less red tape, more action, more results, more success, more quickly. We want investments to come in, projects to break ground faster, [and] jobs to reach our people sooner. Because when businesses move quickly, progress follows just as fast,” the President said.
The President made the remarks during the Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan Milestone Event held in Malacañang last month.
ARTA’s role is to facilitate and coordinate efforts with various lead agencies to address concerns such as digital infrastructure, aimed at boosting internet speed and attaining wider coverage.
He said ARTA is currently working closely with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Energy (DOE), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
He added that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) spearheaded a workshop on digital infrastructure and renewable energy last week.
Perez said that to address challenges related to high power costs, ARTA encourages businesses to harness the Philippines’ renewable energy potential, noting that ADB conducted a workshop on the matter.
“By June, we will have a study that will recommend expediting the permitting process further to encourage investors to really come in, and we’re really preparing for it,” Perez said.
ARTA issued a memorandum circular under the theme “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in a Bagong Pilipinas,” highlighting the administration’s brand of governance to create a transparent, efficient, citizen-centric, and business-friendly government. | PND
