The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) aspires that whoever wins as Cebu City mayor fast-track implementation of Republic Act 11032 (Ease of Doing Business Act) and foster transformative e-governance aimed at creating a more modern, efficient, and citizen-centric government that is more accessible, transparent, and accountable, strengthening Cebu City’s position as a competitive and investor-friendly destination.
CCCI President Jay Yuvallos made this statement after the Mayoralty Forum hosted by the Chamber and attended by over 100 representatives from various member companies, private individuals and associations. The presence of all five (5) candidates, offer the members, the voting public, and the whole community a rare opportunity to hear their plans and programs firsthand.
“Today’s gathering is an exciting opportunity to learn from one another as the next public service leaders for Cebu City, to expand the general perception of each candidate, his policy stances and general political knowledge, and most importantly to increase participation and accountability by fostering citizen participation as a key element of a good governance system where individuals are free to evaluate public decisions, processes, and actions,” Yuvallos said in his welcome address.
During the said forum, candidates Nestor Archival, Raymond Alvin Garcia, Michael Rama, ‘Yogi’ Filemon Ruiz, and Julieto Co shared their plans and vision for the city. All candidates, except for Mr. Co who had to rest for a while, also answered questions on various topics relevant to enhancing Cebu City’s competitiveness.
Responding to the question on the implementation of R.A. 11032, the four candidates shared their action plans.
Archival highlighted the inefficiencies in business permitting which include lengthy processes, complex requirements, and a lack of online accessibility. To address this, he proposed a policy to release all permits within a single day, with provisional approvals granted for three months while businesses complete any remaining requirements. He also proposed to have independent members in the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) and make procurement processes publicly accessible online to ensure greater accountability and transparency.
Garcia highlighted his initiative as a city councilor to extend business license validity from one year to two years. He pointed to Cebu City’s ongoing digital transformation, noting that key offices like the Assessor’s Office, Business Licensing, and the Office of the Building Official now offer online and manual services. He also cited plans to maximize technology to ensure effective and efficient processes and foster transparency. He also shared plans to establish a dedicated procurement unit to streamline and professionalize the process.
Rama emphasized the importance of leadership and cultivating a results-driven culture within City Hall to improve business processes. He believes effective governance starts with setting the right example. Rama asserted that digital solutions and clean leadership—free from corruption—are key to a more efficient and business-friendly Cebu City.
Meanwhile, Ruiz drew from his experience as Customs Commissioner, highlighting how he fought corruption and improved efficiency by implementing e-governance and one-stop-shop systems. His approach focuses on minimizing human interaction to reduce discretion and eliminate corruption. Ruiz proposes a digital system where document processing is merit-based and monitored, with a strict 10-working-day deadline for approval or disapproval—holding departments accountable for delays.
Meanwhile, Co said he would increase cash assistance to senior citizens and PWDs if elected mayor. He also plans to improve health services by completing the Cebu City Medical Center and building a community hospital in Barangay Cantipla for one, as well as to address the garbage disposal and flooding problem, and stop corruption.
Yuvallos also hoped local government units in Cebu would continue to collaborate with the business sector to boost Cebu’s economy.
The Chamber has initiated alliances with the power sector, academe, and tourist stakeholders. “I am confident that this forum we have today will inspire collaboration, foster innovation, and open new pathways for our businesses to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape,” he said.
