Cebu City Removes Notarization Requirement for Temporary Business Permits
The Cebu City Government has officially abolished the notarization requirement for the issuance of temporary business permits, a significant policy shift aimed at alleviating the financial and administrative load on taxpayers while accelerating permit processing times. This decision, announced by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña via a Facebook post on Saturday, January 24, 2026, comes after Mayor Nestor Archival endorsed a directive enabling the same-day release of these permits.
Streamlining Business Transactions
In his statement, Osmeña highlighted that many individuals within City Hall had been exploiting the notarization process by charging up to P400 for services that are not legally mandated. He emphasized that this practice imposed an unnecessary and unjust burden on taxpayers, stating, "The City Government’s job is to make your life easier, not harder. So that’s what we’ll do." The vice mayor confirmed that Archival agreed to halt this practice immediately, reinforcing the administration's commitment to improving the ease of doing business in Cebu City.
Policy Implementation and Details
The new policy was formalized through a letter dated January 22, 2026, in which Osmeña requested the same-day release of temporary business permits in compliance with Executive Order 048, series of 2026. Under this directive, applicants are no longer required to submit notarized application forms or undertakings under oath, provided that all necessary taxes, charges, and fees have been fully paid. This move is part of a broader effort to reduce red tape, cut processing times, and support entrepreneurs, particularly small and medium enterprises, by allowing them to operate legally while they complete other regulatory requirements.
Coordination and Compliance
The same-day release policy will be implemented in coordination with relevant city departments to ensure proper adherence and smooth execution. Emma Villarete, Officer-in-Charge of the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO), welcomed the initiative, noting that while permit issuance primarily falls under the Business Permits and Licensing Office, this change represents a small yet meaningful step to assist taxpayers. She pointed out that this is especially crucial given the recent calamities that have impacted local businesses.
Validity and Future Prospects
Villarete clarified that temporary permits issued under this new system will be valid only until April 30, after which they will be automatically revoked. This timeframe gives business owners ample opportunity to comply with other regulatory obligations. She warned that failure to meet these requirements will result in automatic penalties as stipulated in the tax code. Additionally, Villarete suggested that if the mayor, vice mayor, and City Council find the current process beneficial for business owners, it could eventually be institutionalized through an ordinance, ensuring long-term improvements in business facilitation.
Role of the City Treasurer’s Office
Regarding the CTO's involvement, Villarete explained that the office is responsible for collecting due and demandable amounts as outlined in the tax ordinance, but it also actively listens to taxpayer concerns. She underscored the importance of taxes and fees, stating, "Taxes [and fees] are the lifeblood of the City Government and taxpayers play a vital role in keeping the economic activity of our city alive and robust." This balanced approach aims to foster a more supportive environment for business operations in Cebu City.
