Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Director General Ernesto Perez on Thursday issued a final warning to government offices and agencies failing to comply with the Ease of Doing Business Law, saying ARTA is ready to file cases against violators.
“To those who continue to delay or deny reform—this is our final warning. There is no room for laziness or obstruction in public service,” Perez declared during the 7th State of the ARTA Address at The Manila Hotel.
He emphasized that ARTA will not hesitate to name and file cases against those hindering reforms, asserting that resisting progress means standing in the way of the Filipino people.
Perez also launched the Philippine Ease of Doing Business Reform Guidebook, a roadmap focused on 10 key areas including registration, permitting, trade, and insolvency. Crafted with public-private input, it aims to address inefficiencies and promote a digital, citizen-centered government.
Senator Risa Hontiveros, who attended the event, supported ARTA’s reforms but reminded that public service should be ethical and inclusive. “It should not feel like a privilege—it is a right,” she said.
Perez confirmed he submitted his courtesy resignation following President Marcos’ directive for Cabinet and Cabinet-level officials to allow for administration recalibration after the midterm elections. Until a replacement is named, he said he will continue to serve.
