CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES — Mayor Nestor Archival has assured business owners in Cebu City that no increase in business taxes will be imposed in 2026, underscoring the city government’s commitment to easing business operations and strengthening investor confidence.
Archival said his administration, in coordination with Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña and the City Council, is focused on making it easier to do business by simplifying procedures and avoiding additional financial burdens on entrepreneurs.
“This is very important. So far, wala gyud ta nagbutang og increase. Mao ni atong gusto sa City government together with the vice mayor and the City Council,” Archival said.
To further support businesses, Archival has issued an executive order mandating the same-day release of permits once all requirements are complete.
For establishments that need more time to comply with regulatory standards—such as fire safety certifications—the city will grant a 90-day compliance period.
“We want that business is easy,” the mayor said.
Archival explained that delays in permit processing often stem from inspections and certifications required by agencies such as the Bureau of Fire Protection.
“If the documents are ready, then we will be releasing them right away, within the day,” he added.
Despite the absence of a tax hike, Archival clarified that businesses affected by the recent typhoon are not exempt from paying business taxes and other fees.
“Wala man tay ordinansya nag-ingon nga kun maigo ka sa bagyo di ka mobayad og tax. So mobayad gyud sila,” he said, stressing that taxes and fees remain mandatory to ensure uninterrupted city operations.
The official schedule for the payment of business taxes, fees, and other charges, including the renewal of Mayor’s Business Permits, runs from January 5 to January 20, 2026, with transactions starting daily at 8:30 a.m.
The city government has urged business owners to settle their obligations early to avoid penalties, long queues, and processing delays as the deadline nears.
The initiative aligns with Archival’s broader fiscal strategy. In his proposed 2026 budget, the mayor directed revenue-generating offices to maximize collections without raising property or business taxes, focusing instead on improved compliance and streamlined procedures.
The Business Processing and Licensing Office has been tasked to simplify requirements and expand service accessibility.
By combining no tax increases, faster permit releases, and expanded service options, Cebu City aims to further position itself as a business-friendly hub in the region.
| Written by Caecent No-ot Magsumbol
