BPLS Reform Program Guide - National Computer Center

P AST BPLS R EFORMS IN THE P HILIPPINES 29
3.3 LESSONS LEARNED
Over the past ten years the “knowhow” or technology of BPLS reform has been defined and
crystallized in the course of various reform initiatives. Many tools are now available for
implementing, monitoring, and evaluating reforms. A variety of approaches have produced
positive results. Several useful lessons learned in the experience are presented below.
Identifying Reforms Champions
The success of the BPLS program can be attributed partly to the leadership exerted by DTI and
DILG at the national level since 2009 and by LCEs at the local level. DTI and DILG harmonized
BPLS initiatives and organized them into a coherent program that included standards for business
registration processes and mechanisms for sustaining the program. Each agency had clearly
delineated responsibilities. DTI engaged the private sector, such as local business groups, while
DILG engaged LCEs, such as the LGU leagues. Together, their local offices implemented the
program based on the functional delineation in the JDAO.
Equally important was the support of the LCEs, who needed to be convinced to contribute
manpower and financial resources to the program. The LCEs facilitated the support of the local
council and other public stakeholders in the LGU (i.e., the BPLO, the Office of the Building
Official, the Health and Sanitation Office, the Planning and Development Office, among others)
and the offices of the national government agencies (i.e., the Bureau of Fire Protection).
LCEs were convinced to support the program through one-on-one meetings, multimedia, and
advocacy events. In sum, generating interest among LCEs and other stakeholders requires a
deliberate information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign. IEC in the BPLS process
involves informing potential and existing customers about the requirements, procedures, and
service delivery levels involved in the business permit and renewal process.
Harmonizing Assistance from the Development Community
In addition to the home-grown projects of LGUs with DTI and DILG were the reform projects of
development partners. These projects played a catalytic role and helped achieve consensus on the
direction of BPLS reforms. Improvements in business registration processes attributable to donor
assistance were adopted by the government in designing the current BPLS program. Donors’
technical and financial assistance jumpstarted the streamlining of business processes in LGUs,
especially those with capacity and resource constraints. At the national level, the BPLS program
was piloted with the funding of several donors and then later through the national budget. The
project aligned government priorities with development assistance and harmonized donor
assistance to prevent the duplication and competition typical of other official development
assistance programs. Table 3-5 summarizes BPLS assistance from development partners.