Quarterly Performance Report October – December 2012

The project aimed to improve the investment climate in the country by enhancing the business environment and promoting economic growth. The project was implemented in three cities: Batangas, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro. Component 1 of the project focused on improving the business environment through the establishment of a one-stop shop for business registration and licensing. The Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) was set up in each of the three cities, providing a streamlined process for entrepreneurs to register and obtain necessary permits. The project also implemented the electronic Business Permits and Licensing System (eBPLS) to facilitate online registration and payment of fees. Component 2 of the project focused on promoting economic growth through the development of infrastructure and the provision of technical assistance to local government units. The project supported the development of comprehensive development plans and comprehensive land use plans for each of the three cities. The project also provided technical assistance to local government units to improve their capacity to manage and implement development projects. Component 3 of the project focused on improving the investment climate through the promotion of public-private partnerships and the provision of technical assistance to local government units. The project supported the establishment of investment promotion boards in each of the three cities and provided technical assistance to local government units to improve their capacity to attract and retain investments. The project also implemented a number of cross-cutting activities, including the development of a gender action plan and the implementation of a knowledge management system. The project also provided technical assistance to local government units to improve their capacity to monitor and evaluate development projects. The project achieved a number of significant results during the quarter, including the establishment of the BOSS in each of the three cities and the implementation of the eBPLS system. The project also supported the development of comprehensive development plans and comprehensive land use plans for each of the three cities. The project also provided technical assistance to local government units to improve their capacity to manage and implement development projects. In terms of specific accomplishments, the project achieved the following results: * 100% of the target number of businesses registered through the BOSS in each of the three cities. * 90% of the target number of businesses registered online through the eBPLS system. * 80% of the target number of comprehensive development plans and comprehensive land use plans completed for each of the three cities. * 70% of the target number of local government units provided with technical assistance to improve their capacity to manage and implement development projects. The project also faced a number of challenges during the quarter, including delays in the implementation of the BOSS and the eBPLS system. However, the project team worked closely with local government units and other stakeholders to overcome these challenges and achieve the project's objectives. The project's results are expected to have a significant impact on the investment climate in the Philippines and contribute to the country's economic growth. The project's achievements in improving the business environment and promoting economic growth are expected to attract more investments to the country and create jobs for the local population.