Bataan 1st District Rep. Tony Roman III has filed House Bill No. 610 to amend the Innovative Startup Act, saying it is time to make the law more effective in addressing the needs of Filipino entrepreneurs, particularly young innovators and startups outside Metro Manila.

“In the past years, we have seen the gaps and limitations of the current law—from overly complicated processes to lack of support for provincial and early-stage startups. That is why we are pushing to amend the Innovative Startup Act to make it more inclusive and effective,” Roman said.

The proposed amendments under HB 610 seek to provide a clearer definition of what qualifies as a startup, simplify application procedures for government support, and extend assistance even to early-stage or informal teams. It also includes incentives for private sector partners who will support startups, as well as a centralized system to streamline requirements and reduce confusion.

Roman stressed that the measure will strengthen the Philippine startup ecosystem nationwide, give more opportunities to youth and provincial innovators, and help Filipino entrepreneurs become globally competitive.
“Location or lack of big capital should no longer be a barrier. As long as you have an idea, you have hope,” he added.

The Innovative Startup Act, first enacted in 2019, was designed to encourage innovation-driven enterprises. Roman’s proposed amendments aim to ensure that more Filipinos—especially those outside urban centers—can participate and thrive in the country’s growing innovation landscape.

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