Streamlined Success: How BUTUAN CITY’s 2026 BOSS is Revolutionizing Business Permits

COURTESY: MFC, PIA Caraga

A Fresh Start to 2026: Cutting the Red Tape

The dawn of 2026 has brought with it a renewed sense of optimism for entrepreneurs in **BUTUAN CITY**. As the much-anticipated **Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS)** kicks off, the local government introduces a groundbreaking queueing system—one designed to shorten lines, reduce bureaucratic red tape, and make business transactions remarkably more efficient.  

Transitioning away from the old, time-consuming processes, this centralized venue now houses essential services from agencies such as the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), among others. By bringing these offices under one roof, business owners can breathe a sigh of relief as they avoid the hassle of hopping from one government office to another. It’s more than just convenience—it’s a commitment to efficiency and transparency.  

Turning Processes Into Seamless Experiences

With the new queueing system introduced by the **City Business Permits and Licensing Department (CBPLD)**, order and predictability are now the norm. Clear turn allocations based on transaction type have replaced the uncertain waiting game. This means faster processing, fewer crowds, and a smoother journey toward securing a business permit. In fact, on January 2 alone, CBPLD issued an impressive 280 permits!  

Adding a touch of appreciation, the first 100 business owners were gifted complimentary wall clocks—symbolizing both time saved and the lasting relationship between the city and its entrepreneurs. To make things even more convenient, online payment options are now available, enabling business owners to renew or register without standing in line at all. This embrace of digital tools aligns with national efforts to foster investor-friendly environments, paving the way for more growth and opportunity.  

Security, Style, and Smart Planning

Of course, the 2026 BOSS isn’t just about speed—it’s also about safety and modernization. This year’s business permits come printed on board paper with enhanced security features, making falsification a thing of the past. The business registration plates have also been redesigned, adding a fresh look to a vital business requirement.  

Operating until January 31 at the second floor of Robinsons Place Butuan, BOSS invites entrepreneurs to arrive prepared. The CBPLD reminds everyone to bring complete requirements to avoid repeat visits that could delay processing. With such thoughtful planning and customer-centered improvements, **BUTUAN CITY** is positioning itself as a bustling hub for commerce—one where efficiency meets opportunity.

The 2026 BOSS is more than just a government service—it’s a clear statement that **BUTUAN CITY** is ready to welcome, support, and empower its entrepreneurs with systems designed for the future. For business owners, this is a golden opportunity to take advantage of a streamlined, secure, and customer-friendly process.  

A New Era of Visionary Leadership at PHIVIDEC-IA

COURTESY: PIAMO

The **NEWLY APPOINTED PHIVIDEC-IA BOARD OF DIRECTORS** marks the beginning of a promising chapter for the PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority. With fresh perspectives and unwavering commitment, the newly sworn-in leaders are set to guide the organization toward greater heights in promoting sustainable industrial development throughout the Philippines.  

Appointed by His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., the distinguished new directors bring years of experience, expertise, and dedication. Their arrival signals a renewed sense of purpose and momentum, ensuring that PHIVIDEC-IA’s mission continues to resonate across industries and communities.  

Meet the Visionaries

Dr. Anabel A. Abuzo – A Champion for Growth and Innovation

On November 27, 2025, Dr. Abuzo was appointed as a Director, succeeding Jesus A. Manangquil, Jr. Her official oath-taking took place on December 17, 2025, before Hon. Judge Arthur L. Abundiente, Presiding Judge of RTC Branch 25 – Hall of Justice, Cagayan de Oro City. Known for her strategic thinking and passion for community-focused development, Dr. Abuzo brings a wealth of knowledge that will amplify PHIVIDEC-IA’s capabilities.  

Through her leadership, we can expect initiatives that balance economic progress with environmental responsibility, ensuring that industrial growth benefits both business sectors and local communities.  

Atty. Andres David M. Bolinas – A Legal Mind with a Vision

Similarly, on December 2, 2025, Atty. Bolinas was appointed as Director, succeeding Gerardo C. Tevez. He officially took his oath alongside Dr. Abuzo on December 17, 2025, before Hon. Justice Louis P. Acosta – Associate Justice, Court of Appeals – Manila. His legal expertise and deep understanding of governance will undoubtedly strengthen PHIVIDEC-IA’s strategic framework.  

By weaving legal precision with forward-thinking policies, Atty. Bolinas is poised to contribute significantly to the authority’s mission, fostering trust, transparency, and efficiency in every decision made.  

The **NEWLY APPOINTED PHIVIDEC-IA BOARD OF DIRECTORS** embodies the perfect blend of expertise, leadership, and dedication. As they step into their new roles, the country can look forward to stronger industrial strategies, improved collaboration with stakeholders, and a relentless drive toward sustainable progress.  

PHIVIDEC-IA not only welcomes these leaders into its family but also embraces the new opportunities their leadership will bring. Indeed, this signals a bright and transformative future ahead. 

Harvesting Hope: How Land, Debt Relief, and Machinery Are Transforming Lives in Northern Mindanao

COURTESY: JAKA/PIA-10

A Region Moving Toward Empowerment

On December 22, 2025, a powerful story emerged from Northern Mindanao. The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) revealed remarkable progress in reshaping rural communities through land distribution, debt condonation, and vital support services. Under the dedicated leadership of DAR Regional Director Zoraida O. Macadindang, the region achieved a stunning 97.4% of its regular land distribution target. This meant that **31,380 hectares** of fertile soil were granted to **188,248 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs)**. The accomplishment is not merely about numbers—it’s about giving farmers the foundation to cultivate dignity, stability, and prosperity.  

Furthermore, the air was filled with relief as 11,908 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM) were handed to 9,768 beneficiaries. This historic move erased **P619.55 million** in agrarian reform debts, with an additional **P76.2 million** scheduled for condonation later. These figures paint a vivid picture of freedom—freedom from financial chains and the opportunity to start anew. 

From Collective Dreams to Individual Titles

In Northern Mindanao, land is more than property—it’s a promise of future security. With the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (Project SPLIT) in partnership with the World Bank, DAR-10 has been transforming collective landholdings into individual titles. This step strengthens tenure security, ensuring each farmer’s right to their land is protected. Already, **11,727 electronic titles** have reached **11,382 beneficiaries**, covering over **15,825 hectares**, mostly in Bukidnon. Soon, another **7,035 electronic titles** will be distributed, securing the future of **7,674 ARBs** and spanning more than **11,574 hectares**.  

Beyond paperwork, DAR’s initiatives create tangible change on the ground. Through the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development and Sustainability Program, the agency provided **136 units of farm machinery and equipment** worth **P31.16 million** to 89 ARB organizations. This equipment benefits over **6,400 farmers**, enabling them to cultivate their lands more efficiently and boost production. The rumble of tractors and the hum of mechanical threshers symbolize progress, resilience, and a future rooted in self-reliance. 

Seeds of Change Taking Root

Northern Mindanao’s agrarian reform journey is a testament to what can happen when policy meets commitment. From empowering farmers with land ownership to liberating them from debt, DAR’s efforts build more than farms—they grow communities, enhance food security, and nurture hope. Here, every hectare distributed, every debt erased, and every machine delivered becomes a tool for transformation.