MAKATI CITY — Businesses looking for places to invest often prioritize fiscal stability, operational efficiency, and security, and Makati City continues to deliver on all three. Through its 10-Priority Agenda for 2025 to 2028, an executive-legislative roadmap aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the city is providing long-term policy stability while promoting broad-based economic participation that supports lasting growth. The city’s economic momentum is already reflected in its numbers. Business tax collection increased by 11 percent in January 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, signaling expanding commercial activity and investor confidence in Makati’s business environment.
A Strategic Development Agenda Anchored on the SDGs
Makati’s 10-Priority Agenda serves as the city’s development framework for 2025 to 2028, integrating SDG principles into local governance. By aligning economic progress with environmental sustainability and social inclusion, the city strengthens its appeal to investors seeking stable, transparent, and globally aligned markets. The agenda covers critical sectors including infrastructure, education, healthcare, environmental protection, and public safety, all contributing to a more resilient and business-friendly urban economy. This long-term policy direction gives businesses confidence that Makati’s governance remains forward-looking and investment-ready.
Streamlined Government Services Support Business Expansion
To further encourage economic activity, Makati implemented a 15 percent across-the-board reduction in land taxes, easing financial pressures on residents and businesses while maintaining fiscal discipline. The measure also creates additional room for companies planning to expand operations or reinvest capital within the city. The city has likewise strengthened its Ease of Doing Business initiatives. Its enhanced Business One-Stop Shop now features permit portals and online payment systems compliant with the Ease of Doing Business and Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) requirements, making business registration and permit processing more efficient. For developers, engineers, and property owners, the relocated One-Stop Shop for Construction Permits consolidates approvals and transactions into a more streamlined process, helping accelerate project timelines while lowering administrative costs.
ESG Readiness and Circular Economy Initiatives
Makati is also positioning itself as a city where businesses can scale responsibly while meeting global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. Circular economy initiatives introduced by the local government promote resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable consumption practices. For enterprises seeking ESG-compliant operations, Makati offers a supportive regulatory environment backed by policies that encourage sustainable growth and long-term environmental stewardship.
Building a More Inclusive Urban Economy
Makati’s governance strategy demonstrates how fiscal discipline, sustainability, and social equity can work together to support economic progress. Beyond its established infrastructure and prime business location, the city continues to attract investment through reforms that prioritize efficiency, inclusivity, and responsible urban development. By reducing land taxes, digitizing permit systems, and advancing circular economy programs, Makati continues to build an economy that benefits businesses, residents, and the environment alike.
