COUNCILORS PROPOSE CREATION OF OFFICE TO BOOST ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

April 12, 2024 Metro BLISTT

Councilors Leandro Yangot Jr., Benny Bomogao, and Mylen Victoria Yaranon have filed a proposed ordinance
establishing the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions (LEDIP) Office within the City
Government of Baguio. The proposed ordinance cites Department of the Interior and Local Government Memorandum Circular 2010-113 which encourages provincial governors and city mayors to appoint Local Economic and Investment promotions Officers (LEIPOs) to attract investments and boost local economic activities.

Likewise, the proposed ordinance explains that the presence of a LEIPO is recognized as an essential indicator in the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), particularly under the BusinessFriendliness and Competitiveness Essential
Area. The LEIPO will lead the LEDIP Office. The functions and responsibilities of the LEDIP Office are outlined in the proposed ordinance. This office will be established to facilitate, prepare, coordinate, and execute local economic development and investment promotion policies, programs, projects, and activities within the city.

Furthermore, this office will oversee activities related to investment facilitation, local enterprise development, support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), business retention, expansion, and other economic activities aimed at attracting investments and generating employment. The LEDIP Office will consist of units such as
Economic Enterprise, tasked with formulating plans for new economic ventures and coordinating Public-Private
Partnership projects. The Business Development unit will oversee trade and industry functions, promote local trades, conduct research on product development, and facilitate networking among MSMEs.

The Investment Services unit will evaluate applications for incentives, assist clients in finding business partners, and
prepare investment-related documents. These units will work together under the LEDIP Office to drive economic growth, support local businesses, and attract investments to the city. Upon its enactment, the ordinance will repeal Chapter II of Ordinance 13-19 which created the Baguio City Investments and Incentives Board (BCIIB). Any references to BCIIB in the previous ordinance will now pertain to the LEDIP Office. The proposed ordinance has been approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council and referred to the Committee on Appropriations and Finance Cluster C for review.

Jordan G. Habbiling/SP