The Shifting Stage of Business to the “New Normal”

Abstract

This paper dealt with the shifting stage of businesses in Baliwag City, Philippines, to the “New Normal” post-pandemic era. It analyzed how businesses, particularly based in Baliwag City, Bulacan responded to the following problems which arose due to the pandemic: safety protocols being implemented, shortage and inflation concerning raw materials and other supplies, offered products' and services' demands, experiences in terms of keeping customers and attracting new ones, cashless transactions, government support and the level of preparedness in case there will be waves of the pandemic. This research used a stratified sampling technique with 350 respondents who are registered business owners in Baliwag City. Based on the data gathered, most of the establishments do not follow the safety protocols released by the IATF, such as hand sanitizing, checking of body temperature, I am safe scanning, and the presentation of vaccination cards anymore. In addition, the study shows that the supply of raw materials and products and services demand has returned to normal, and the government gave ample support to businesses; however, inflation kept on rising. Undeniably, Baliwag City is gradually embracing the new normal as the actual stage of business in the 21st century.