12/05/2026
May 12,2026|| 4th floor, Ceremonial Hall
Board Member Atty. Jamie Aumentado Villamor attended the Bohol Investment Assistance Network Forum 2026- One Stop Shop Solutions for the Local Furniture Industry
“As Chairperson of the SP Committee on Environment and Tourism and sponsor of the Resolution calling for compliance assistance and transition support for our wood furniture MSMEs, I welcome all of you to this important forum.
The furniture-making industry is more than just a business sector in Bohol. It is a source of livelihood for many families, a reflection of Boholano craftsmanship, and an important contributor to our local economy and tourism identity.
However, we also recognize the present challenge faced by many of our wood furniture makers. A significant number of MSMEs have received Notices of Violation due to the absence of Environmental Compliance Certificates or Wood Processing Plant permits required under environmental regulations.
Let me be clear: environmental compliance is important and necessary. We fully support the protection of our environment and the proper implementation of our laws.
But at the same time, we must also acknowledge the realities on the ground.
Many of our small operators struggle with the complexity, technical requirements, cost, and lengthy process involved in securing permits. Some were unaware of the requirements despite operating with local permits and BIR registration. For many MSMEs, the issue is not refusal to comply—but difficulty in compliance itself.
And this is why today’s initiative is very important.
This forum and One-Stop-Shop initiative aim to bridge the gap between regulation and accessibility. Through stronger coordination among DENR, DTI, LGUs, and stakeholders, we hope to provide our furniture makers with proper guidance, technical assistance, and a clearer pathway toward compliance.
Our goal is simple:
To ensure environmental compliance while protecting livelihoods.
As policymakers, our responsibility is not only to uphold the law, but also to help make compliance workable, accessible, and achievable for our people.
We believe that good governance means creating solutions—not merely imposing penalties.
I thank the Bohol Investment Assistance Network, DENR, DTI, and all participating agencies and stakeholders for coming together in support of our local furniture industry.
May this forum become the beginning of stronger collaboration and practical solutions for our MSMEs
Daghang salamat ug maayong buntag sa tanan.”
Sa kanunay kita magkuyog sa pag-abante, Abante Bohol!❤️🇵🇭
