• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) has recorded over 160 establishments in Bacolod City operating without the necessary business permits.
According to BPLO Head Stela Rose Rayos, they have issued closure orders for nearly 300 establishments, as of October 30. Of these, 54 have already been closed, and 22 have not yet reopened.
The establishments found operating without permits include various businesses such as boutiques, water refilling stations, and small eateries.
She said that most of these establishments are operating without a record in the city, while others are still in the payment process.
Rayos added that these illegal operations were discovered through the BPLO’s random inspections conducted in different barangays across the city.
Meanwhile, the advance processing for the renewal of permits and clearances, which began last November 15, will end in the last working day of December.
On the other hand, the Business One Stop Shop will begin on the first working day of January 2026 and will end on the 20th, at the Bacolod City Government Center.*
