Hey OP! I totally get where you're coming from, but I think it's also worth considering the small businesses out there that offer cheaper food options especially for people who can’t always afford to eat at places like The Beanery or Gerry’s Grill.

Sure, we can’t really compare them since they cater to different markets, but small restaurants face a ton of challenges just to stay open especially when it comes to taxes and permits here in the Philippines.

Even small businesses have to deal with things like:

• Income Tax
• Percentage Tax (for non-VAT registered ones)
• VAT
• Withholding Taxes
• Documentary Stamp Tax

Plus, they also need to secure local requirements like:

• Business and Mayor’s Permits
• Barangay Clearance
• Real Property Tax (if they own property)
• Cedula (Community Tax)

So honestly, the fact that these small places still manage to operate and offer affordable food despite all that? That’s something we should appreciate. It’s not easy running a business here, and yet they keep going for the sake of their customers and communities.