Last week I processed for the renewal of two companies in Antipolo City. The city hall used to be just beside the Old Church but it was transferred to the Ynares Center within the Kapitolyo - about a kilometer away. Good thing they provided some shuttles where applicants can ride for free. But of course it's on a first-come-first-served basis and as a general rule, we have to give way to the elderly, PWDs, preggys. But it's alright :) I am still thankful because I can still endure the long walk :)
AT THE KAPITOLYO COMPOUND
*City Government Offices temporarily occupy the dug-outs around the Ynares Ctr
A big tarp stands at the Processing Area facing the crowd of applicants that says BOSS (Business One Stop Shop). But the supposed ONE STOP SHOP system ended like a ONE LOOOOONG STOP. {But don't judge yet 'til I get to share the whole story :D } There were about 8 stations where you have to fall in line for every station.
Many people were already complaining because if you fail to bring one of the requirements you need to submit it first before you can actually the procede to the next. It took me about 2 hours per stage during the pre-assesment. I thought to myself I really have to bear with it because it's already two days before the due date and most of us were "crammers" (just like my college days - cramming with reports) until I saw one glitch --- It's taking sooooo long because two stations are using JUST ONE old typewriter to prepare a certain permit for everyone. Weeeew!
But with all due fairness to the BPLO, they set up water stations in the area, with free coffee; gave away candies and biscuits for hungry applicants. And to top that, NO NOON BREAK. And as I have observed, the staff didn't have substitutes - they continue to accommodate and process paper with just the biscuits available. Wow! That's commitment!
And not only that, a lot of applicants were already losing their patience because of the long procedure but I never saw any of the BPLO staff lose theirs! (even asking for apologies from time to time) Most of the staff were even joking and making people laugh and sharing their joyous spirit with everybody. What can I say? I am so so impressed! Perhaps many people were wondering, from where are they getting this high spirit under an ocean of pressure? :D
Finally got the discounted assessed fee, and ready to pay it the Cashier just to find out there's two more stations with one station after paying! Whoa! But I will not be able to finish if I focus on this irritating glitch besides I am already at the last two stations, patiently waited until the name of our company was called and procede.
At the very last station where I'm suppose to get our claim stub for the mayor's permit, the old lady who's evaluating my final requirements had to stop to drink her maintenance medicine. She was as jolly as the other staff and was candid enough to admit that she has not taken her lunch yet but she had to drink her medicine. I suddenly felt a knock from up above to do a random act of kindness. After I got my stub, I bought two sandwiches for her and the other senior lady beside her. I wish I has enough budget to treat them all for a job well done. Their patience is something worth rewarding :)
I've been applying and renewing business permits in Antipolo City for the past four years and I NEVER encountered anyone asking for "under-the-table" for quicker processing. Something to be proud of - Antipoleños!
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