In a statement, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said that businesses and consumers benefit from greater efficiency and market competition, thus government processes, rules and regulations, as well as issuances, should not be overly restrictive.

According to Pernia, too much restrictions result in undue and unnecessary burden to businesses, consumers, and the public at large.

“We need to have a regulatory environment that encourages — not stifles — productivity, innovation, and efficiency improvements,” Pernia said.

NEDA issued a statement following Anti-Red Tape Authority’s (ARTA) call for the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to address alleged irregularities in the issuance of Provisional Authority (PA) and the grant of Certificate of Public Convenience to Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) applicants.

ARTA also asked LTFRB to explain its alleged failure to act on applications for the issuance and renewal of PAs within the stamped processing time and the imposition of undue regulatory burden and cost.

LTFRB reportedly requires TNVS applicants to file their application in person as the designation of a representative other than the direct ascendant or descendant of the applicants is prohibited.

Last August 13, ARTA announced that after receiving LTFRB’s response, it will submit a report of their findings and recommendations to President Rodrigo R. Duterte. They also stated that they will issue an order for LTFRB to automatically approve all applications that have already complied with requirements and are only waiting for a decision.

“The imposition of additional requirements without due cause restricts the entry of market players or businesses in any industry. Our role in government is to simplify and streamline processes to create an enabling environment that would be beneficial to all in the long term,” Pernia said.