The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), through its Modernizing Government Regulations Program (MGRP), launched its 2023 Regulatory Review on September 4, 2023, at the Citadines Millennium Ortigas Manila, and via Zoom teleconferencing.

Joy Divinagracia, Chief Economic Development Specialist of the National Economic and Development Authority’s (NEDA) Political Governance Division, said that the agency recognizes the MGRP’s fundamental role in establishing a business-friendly regulatory framework particularly in a rapidly evolving global landscape where the Philippine economy confronts multifaceted challenges. She also lauded the program as a vital partner in comprehensive regulatory reform and enhancing the ease of conducting business in the country. 

DAP Supervising Fellow Reuel Hermoso introduced the selected industries that will undergo evaluation such as clinical laboratories, consumer goods and retail, hazardous medical waste management, livestock subsector, and socialized housing.

Stakeholders and research fellows raised questions and provided their insights during the breakout session. They engaged in constructive discussions as well as shared comments and experiences on issues, regulations, and processes contributing to compliance difficulties and high transaction costs.

Ruy Moreno, chairman of the Ease of Doing Business Committee of the Management Association of the Philippines and the Center for Global Best Practices, emphasized the significance of the review. He underscored his mantra for creating effective policies and regulations, highlighting that they should be specific, easily communicable, implementable, relevant, and supportive of the sector. 

Director Monica Saliendres of the DAP Productivity Research Development Office encouraged participants to contribute comments and recommendations for improving the regulatory landscape of the selected industries and sectors in 2023.

After the launch, the study teams will analyze and prioritize issues gathered from the activity by conducting separate focus group discussions, industry dialogues, and surveys with the target stakeholders from the public and private sectors. 

For updates and further inquiries about the program, head to DAP-MGRP Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/dap.mgr/) or email mgrp2@dap.edu.ph with attention to Ms. Rosario De Castro, Project Manager. 

– Ralph Rubio