From 22 to 7: Isko Moreno slashes zoning requirements, fulfills vow to cut red tape

Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno, in his capacity as chairman of the Manila Zoning Board of Adjustment and Appeals (MZBAA), announced sweeping changes to the city’s zoning requirements to promote streamlining and ease of doing business.

During the first MZBAA meeting under Moreno’s new term on Wednesday, September 10, the board approved reduction of zoning documentary requirements from 22 items to just 7.

The Mayor said the move is aimed at simplifying and expediting applications without compromising compliance with the city’s Zoning Ordinance and related regulations.

The new requirements now cover only the essentials:

1. application form
2. notarized affidavit of undertaking
3. valid government ID of the owner
4. barangay permit
5. proof of ownership such as a transfer certificate of title
6. a lot plan with detailed vicinity map
7. architectural plans, signed and sealed

For renovations and additional floors, as-built plans will also be required.

Domagoso also announced other board-approved adjustments to the requirements for applications for variance and exceptions with the MZBAA.

Instead of a lengthy list of 15 items, applicants will now initially be required to submit only five essential documents:

1. a letter of intent addressed to the City Mayor through the City Planning and Development Office
2. company profile
3. barangay resolution
4. visible project sign
5. certifications from utility providers

To recall, the Mayor vowed to cut red tape and curb corruption in city planning and zoning offices during his inaugural address on July 1, 2025.

“Let us demonstrate, through deeds not words, through actual service not posters on the wall, that there is indeed ease of doing business in Manila,” Domagoso said.

“Tapos na ang kawalanghiyaan at pang-aabuso sa City Planning at Zoning Department simula ngayong araw na ito!” he said.