President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared May of every year as Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month to promote the government’s campaign to strengthen the delivery of key government services, create a more business-friendly environment, and improve bureaucratic efficiency.

On March 3, the President issued Proclamation No. 818, directing the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to lead the annual observance of EODB Month and to identify the programs, activities, and projects related to the celebration.

The proclamation, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, directs all national government agencies and instrumentalities covered by Republic Act No. 9485, also known as the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 (as amended), to coordinate with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA).

The collaboration includes government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs) and local government units (LGUs) to ensure the effective implementation of all programs and activities related to the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month celebration.

The proclamation also encourages non-government organizations (NGOs) and the private sector to actively participate and support ARTA in implementing all EODB initiatives, including the observance of EODB Month.

Under RA No. 9485, the ARTA must implement and oversee a national anti-red tape and Ease of Doing Business (EODB) policy while executing various reform initiatives to streamline government services.

ARTA recommends policies, processes, and systems to enhance regulatory management, monitor agency compliance, and conduct training programs to ensure effective regulatory management practices.

The administration remains committed to strengthening the whole-of-government approach in delivering key services, increasing awareness of creating a more business-friendly environment, driving economic development, and improving bureaucratic efficiency. | PND