Bulacan Takes the Lead in Business Innovation
Bulacan has officially launched the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Champion contest, marking a historic first for Region 3. The initiative aims to institutionalize regulatory excellence, foster digital transformation, and inspire innovation among local government units.
The Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office (PCEDO) spearheaded the event, which took place at the Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center. By empowering LGUs to streamline operations, Bulacan reinforces its commitment to efficient governance and economic competitiveness.
Ceremony Highlights Unity in Reform
Governor Daniel R. Fernando and Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Secretary and Director General Ernesto V. Perez led the ceremonial signing of the EODB Pledge Wall. The gesture symbolized a unified commitment among government officials and private partners toward faster and more transparent business processes.
Fernando stressed that the heart of the program lies not just in policy but in cooperation and compassion. He emphasised that inclusive progress requires a shared vision where every Bulakenyo benefits from improved systems and equal opportunities.
EODB Contest Encourages Digital Transformation
The EODB Champion contest seeks to evaluate participating cities and municipalities in three vital areas: compliance with EODB laws, service efficiency and impact, and innovation through digital integration. By rewarding technological adaptation, the program motivates LGUs to embrace automation and simplify administrative processes.
This focus on digital solutions will help reduce bureaucratic delays, strengthen public trust, and encourage more business registrations and investments across the province.
Collaboration Between Government and Private Sector
ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez commended Bulacan for being the first province in Central Luzon to host such an initiative. He highlighted that the success of EODB reforms depends on the collaborative effort between government agencies and private stakeholders. Perez noted that effective implementation of Republic Act 11032 — the “Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018” — is essential for creating a thriving entrepreneurial environment. His remarks underscored the importance of shared accountability in maintaining transparent governance.
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Empowering Local Government Units Through Competition
The contest not only aims to celebrate best practices but also to motivate LGUs to continuously improve their systems. Through healthy competition, municipalities are encouraged to adopt digital tools, reduce paperwork, and deliver citizen services with speed and accuracy. This model promotes a culture of continuous improvement that aligns with national efforts to make the Philippines more business-friendly.
Inclusive Growth as the Core Vision
Governor Fernando emphasised that genuine success in governance must be measured by inclusivity and compassion. He envisioned the EODB initiative as a mechanism to ensure that progress benefits every sector of society.
By making business processes accessible and efficient, Bulacan hopes to empower small entrepreneurs and local enterprises. The program’s structure ensures that both urban and rural communities have equal access to growth opportunities under an efficient regulatory environment.
Recognition and Awards Await in December
Participating LGUs will undergo evaluation leading up to the awarding ceremony scheduled for December 12. Winners of the EODB Champion contest will be recognised for their excellence in governance, innovation, and service delivery.
The event will not only honour achievements but also set new benchmarks for other provinces to follow. Through this program, Bulacan cements its reputation as a leader in governance reform and a model for fostering ease of doing business in the Philippines.
