by Joel Ryan E. Tugade, Chairman, PCCI Publicity Committee
Starting and growing a business in the Philippines has long been a challenge. Complicated procedures and regulatory hurdles often discourage entrepreneurs before their ventures can even take off. These barriers have historically slowed down business activity and limited opportunities for tech innovation and expansion. 1
In recent years, however, reforms and stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector have started to ease these barriers. With groups like the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) helping drive these efforts, the door has been opened to pave the way for smoother transactions and more opportunities for innovation and growth.
Sustaining reform momentum
Since President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. took office, the PCCI has taken steps to urge the administration to sustain the momentum of the Anti-Red Tape Authority for which it currently serves as champion through the various PCCI local chambers throughout the country.
For the PCCI, streamlining is not only a matter of efficiency but also a strategy to attract investments
and strengthen the country’s innovation capacity.
PCCI President Consul Enunina V. Mangio emphasized, “An environment that makes it easier for entrepreneurs to do business creates opportunities for growth and job generation. Investors are more likely to put resources into a country where transparency, efficiency, and technological readiness are in place. This balance benefits both Filipino enterprises and the broader economy.”
E-government for easier business
Digital solutions play a central role in this transformation. The PhilSys National ID is designed to make everyday transactions — from banking to business registration — faster and more secure.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has also modernized its systems through the Business Name Registration System (BNRS) and the Electronic Business One-Stop-Shop (eBOSS), which allow entrepreneurs to skip the lines and apply for permits online.
DTI’s Business Hub adds another layer of convenience by giving MSMEs quick access to forms and requirements that used to require multiple trips to government offices.
These initiatives tell a bigger story: technology is no longer treated as an option, but as an imperative — a foundation for building a more competitive and business-friendly Philippines.
Strengthening ties for growth
Connectivity has become another cornerstone of this digital journey. The PCCI has expressed strong support for the “Konektadong Pinoy Act” (Open Access in Data Transmission Act), which encourages more private and community investment in broadband infrastructure.
This move supports the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP), 2 a World Bank–funded initiative approved last year to expand internet access in underserved areas and create a strong digital backbone for the economy.
Reliable digital infrastructure does more than provide online convenience — it supports the growth of AI-ready data centers, enhances cross-border trade, and enables businesses to adopt cloud-based solutions that reduce operational costs.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reports that digital transactions now account for 57.4% of monthly retail payments, reflecting increasing trust in digital platforms.
For entrepreneurs, better connectivity reduces barriers to entry and levels the playing field. For investors, it signals that the Philippines is preparing the necessary infrastructure to support future growth in digital commerce.
Despite the progress, tech challenges remain
Many entrepreneurs still face difficulties securing permits from local government units — a roadblock that undermines reform efforts. The PCCI believes addressing this requires a full-scale digital transformation that cuts across all levels of governance.
This is why the 51st Philippine Business Conference & Expo (PBC&E), held last October 20 to 21, 2025, carries such significance. With the theme “The Future is Now: Unleash the Power of Digital Transformation,” the event aims to be more than a gathering of business leaders. It will be a platform to explore how technology can shape the country’s business landscape through stronger policies, better infrastructure, and inclusive growth for all.
Unlocking the country’s full potential
At its core, making business easier is not just about simplifying processes — it’s about embracing digitalization to address basic needs, enable efficient operations, and resolve issues that stifle ingenuity due to poor connectivity.
Ultimately, it’s about unlocking the full potential of the Philippines and giving entrepreneurs the freedom to focus on what they do best: creating, growing, and building opportunities for the future.
About the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is a non-stock, non-profit organization composed of small, medium, and large enterprises, as well as local chambers and industry associations representing various business sectors — all working together to foster a healthier economy and improve business viability in the country.
As a proactive catalyst of development, the PCCI promotes and supports the drive for globally competitive Philippine enterprises, in partnership with the government, local chambers, and other allied business organizations.
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1 Daño-Luna, M. , Canare, T. , and J. Francisco. 2018. Drivers of Philippine SME
2 https://ictstatistics.dict.gov.ph/konektadong-pinoy-to-address-roadblocks-enable-digital-transformation
