BACOLOD City — The city government has intensified its campaign against non-compliant businesses after issuing notices of violation to 40 establishments operating without the required permits during a joint inspection on April 21, 2026.
The operation, conducted along Lopez Jaena Street, was led by the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) under the directive of Mayor Greg Gasataya.
The inspection team included personnel from the City Legal Office (CLO) Enforcement Team and the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department (BTTMD).
Aside from permit-related violations, several establishments—particularly furniture shops and fruit and vegetable vendors—were also cited for obstructing sidewalks and roadways.
Authorities ordered them to immediately clear public spaces to maintain order and ensure fair access for both pedestrians and other businesses.
Under City Ordinance No. 565, Series of 2011, or the Revised Revenue Code of Bacolod City, violators have been given three days to comply and secure the necessary permits.
BPLO head Stela Rose Rayos warned that stricter measures will follow if establishments fail to meet the deadline.
“If no action is taken within three days, a second notice for voluntary closure will be issued until their permits are completed,” Rayos said.
“They will then be given an additional 15 days to comply. Otherwise, their cases will be endorsed to the CLO for formal closure, subject to its implementation timeline,” she added.
The inspection highlighted recurring issues in key areas, particularly among furniture shops in Barangay 27 along Lopez Jaena Street, where some businesses have encroached on public sidewalks and road rights-of-way.
Similar violations were also observed among vendors at Libertad Market in Barangay 40.
City officials said the initiative is part of a broader effort to enforce local regulations, promote order in commercial areas, and ensure that all businesses contribute fairly to the city’s development.
BPLO data showed that from January 1 to March 31, 2026, a total of 22,500 business applicants registered with the city.
Gasataya urged business owners to update their permits promptly, noting that the local government continues to streamline its licensing processes to make compliance easier./PN
