Manila posts 40% jump in new business permits

A surge in new business registrations and steady permit renewals signal strong local business momentum in Manila, according to data presented Monday to Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso.

Bureau of Permits Director Levi Facundo reported a 40% increase in new business permit processing, alongside robust renewal activity, during a briefing at City Hall.

As of 25 January 2026, the city processed 384 new business permits, sharply higher than the 176 recorded during the same 1–25 January period last year. Of the 2026 total, 159 new permits have already been paid, matching last year’s paid count despite the significantly higher number of applications.

Manila also processed 45,261 business permit renewals, with 37,484 already paid, translating to about 82–83 percent payment compliance early in the annual renewal cycle.

“That’s about 82%,” Domagoso said during the briefing.

Facundo stressed that businesses still have around 15 days to complete payments and that the figures are based on an “apples-to-apples” comparison with last year. When asked by Domagoso if the data covered the same date and time period, Facundo answered, “Correct… same date, same time, with [a] different setting.”

For context, the city processed 44,993 renewals from 1–25 January 2025, with 37,891 paid. The latest figures show higher renewal processing this year even as collections continue ahead of the deadline.

Domagoso highlighted the surge in new business activity during the exchange, asking, “In the same period, you grew by 40% with new business permits?” Facundo confirmed, replying, “As of this time, yes. With 384 processed compared to 176 last year same period.”

Facundo also pointed to additional upside in collections, noting that some payments remain uncleared.

“Meron pang mga hindi pa po na-clear na mga payment. So there’s more,” he said.

To give business owners more time to comply, the city extended the renewal period without interest, penalties, or surcharges until 13 February 2026, according to City Treasurer Paul Vega.

“The City extended the renewal period — without interest, penalties, or surcharges — until February 13, 2026, to give business owners ample time to renew their permits,” Vega said.

Domagoso said the figures reflect public trust in City Hall’s systems and processes.