Baguio City is testing an AI-powered online tool that helps business applicants check whether their ventures are allowed in their locations before they proceed with permit applications.
Called BIZ Checker, the tool uses the city’s zoning classifications and requirements to guide applicants. It aims to address cases where people learn only after approaching the city that their documents are incomplete or their businesses cannot operate at their sites.
“Using the platform, the client or the applicant can see if their business is appropriate for that site,” said Roland Bautista, senior project evaluation officer of the Baguio City Planning, Development and Sustainability Office.
BIZ Checker includes Rolly Bot, a chatbot that uses government documents and data to answer users’ questions. During the pilot, users with limited technology experience were able to access the system through their phones, Bautista said.
The tool remains under development. Testing revealed additional permits and requirements that the team needs to include, particularly for businesses planning to operate on government-owned properties.
“We have to account for businesses that will be operating on government-owned properties. These are situations we encountered during the pilot, and now we know they also need to be reflected in the system,” said Bryan Sombilon, senior project technical specialist of the Baguio City Planning, Development and Sustainability Office.
Baguio is also reviewing its zoning rules, including ordinances dating back to the 1990s. The team plans to update the system once the new zoning ordinance is finished and checks for changes in requirements.
City staff developed the tool after a three-month AI mentorship and acceleration program under PLDT and Smart’s AI-in-a-Box initiative, which combines digital tools, connectivity, and training to help communities use AI for needs.
With support from PLDT Smart Foundation, Lenovo Philippines, and Microsoft, PLDT and Smart provided Baguio with an AI access kit containing a laptop, smartphone, connectivity device, and premium access to AI tools.
The team is studying how to make BIZ Checker part of city operations, including funding and maintenance. It will present the tool at PLDT and Smart’s AI in Action Summit in November.
Human assistance will remain available for applicants who need explanations or prefer visiting city offices. The project’s goal is to make zoning information easier to access while staff continue helping residents.
Baguio is one of four participating local governments. Cebu City, Cabanatuan City, and Lanao del Sur province are developing their AI tools for services.