The Manila city government has processed over 45,000 business permit renewals this January 2026, while new business permit applications rose by 40 percent, reflecting a growing confidence in the local business environment, according to the Bureau of Permits.

From January 1 to 25, 2026, the city processed 384 new business permits, compared to 176 during the same period last year. Of these, 159 new permits have already been paid, matching last year’s total despite a higher volume of applications.

Meanwhile, total business permit renewals reached 45,261, with 37,484 fully paid, representing approximately 82–83 percent of all renewals. During the same period in 2025, the city processed 44,993 renewals, of which 37,891 were paid.

Bureau of Permits Director Levi Facundo noted that collections are expected to rise further as some payments are still being confirmed.

To give business owners more time, City Treasurer Atty. Paul Vega announced that the business permit renewal deadline has been extended to February 13, 2026, without interest, penalties, or surcharges.

Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso said the positive figures demonstrate increasing public trust in Manila’s government systems and processes.