QC rolls out ‘epal-free’ and eco-friendly business plates

Quezon City has introduced a new design for its business permit plates, replacing conventional displays with eco-friendly wooden plaques that feature no politician’s name, photograph, or personal branding.

The move offers a refreshing departure from the practice of placing politicians’ names and faces on government-funded materials, commonly criticized as epal politics.

Mayor Joy Belmonte unveiled the redesigned plates, which prominently display the Quezon City government’s official seal, the business permit number, and a QR code that allows the public to verify the validity of the permit.

The minimalist design puts the business establishment, rather than any elected official, at the center of the government-issued identification.

According to Belmonte, the new plates are made from eco-friendly materials and are designed to be difficult to counterfeit.

The first recipients are nano-business owners registered under the Pangkabuhayang QC Program, which supports small entrepreneurs operating with capital of ₱50,000 or less.

Registered nano-businesses are entitled to exemptions from business taxes and regulatory fees, except for the Bureau of Fire Protection’s Fire Safety Inspection Certificate, which carries a minimum fee of ₱500.

Food-related businesses may also receive subsidized water analysis testing from the QC Health Department.

Meanwhile, registered nano-business owners affected by fires, floods, and other disasters may qualify for ₱10,000 in financial assistance.

Applications can be processed through the city’s Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) via the QC E-Services portal.

Beyond its practical features, the redesigned business plate makes a political statement without carrying a politician’s name.

In a country where government projects and public services are frequently used to promote elected officials, Quezon City’s new plates demonstrate that official identification can serve its purpose without becoming a political advertisement.