The private sector has lauded Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s (PBBM) directives to modernize the Philippines’ infrastructure and logistics sectors, expressing confidence in their potential to significantly improve efficiency and economic growth.
Sabin Aboitiz, Lead Convenor of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) and CEO and President of Aboitiz Group, hailed the President’s instructions as a “significant step” towards a more modern infrastructure landscape. Aboitiz emphasized the positive impact of ensuring 24/7 port operations and integrating water-related projects, stating, “We are poised to see substantial improvements in efficiency and economic growth.” He further commended the commitment to resolving road blockages and developing a comprehensive supply chain roadmap, highlighting their potential to streamline processes and reduce costs.
The pronouncements came after PSAC’s fourth Infrastructure Sectoral Meeting held at Malacañang Palace, which focused on critical infrastructure and logistics issues. The meeting resulted in several key agreements aimed at bolstering the nation’s economic development.
One of the major directives involved the continuous operation of ports with a full complement of personnel available around the clock. This policy extends beyond the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and encompasses all agencies involved in the screening and checking of imported goods, particularly essential food and agricultural products. President Marcos stressed the importance of maintaining a consistent workforce, stating, “Let’s keep it running…This is not a skeleton crew but a full complement of personnel who will take care of any kind of business that is there.”
Underscoring the need for a holistic approach, PBBM instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to integrate its flood control program with other water-related projects. This directive encompasses irrigation, water supply, and power generation. The President emphasized the necessity for a cohesive strategy involving various agencies such as the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Agriculture (DA), and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). He referenced the Small Water Impounding Project (SWIP) initiated by former DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, noting the intention to expand the project’s scope.
To address road blockages causing congestion around major ports nationwide, Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Benjamin Abalos committed to assigning dedicated personnel to collaborate with port operators and local government units (LGUs). This initiative aims to ensure smooth transport operations and alleviate traffic issues.
The PSAC Infrastructure Logistics Subsector presented the need for a comprehensive supply chain roadmap. This roadmap is envisioned to address various challenges, including erratic pricing, local policies, and toll fees, ultimately leading to reduced costs. President Marcos expressed his support for the proposal, highlighting the importance of policy reforms to enhance the Philippines’ competitiveness. Secretary Abalos reported ongoing discussions with trucking companies to enforce the Executive Order banning LGUs from collecting toll fees. He urged cooperation to ensure compliance with the directive.
These strategic initiatives demonstrate the Marcos administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure efficiency and building a more resilient Philippine economy. The PSAC has pledged its continued support and will provide recommendations to facilitate these developments.