Private firms push for modern transport system

MANILA, Philippines–The private sector has urged the government to heed the recommendations outlined in a road map that seeks to establish a multimodal transport system in the country, the Export Development Council (EDC) said.

According to the public-private agency, the implementation of the Philippine Multimodal Transportation and Logistics Industry Road Map was crucial as this would help achieve a seamless logistics system, which will in turn boost the country’s competitiveness and help the government achieve “inclusive” growth.

“A strong and comprehensive national multimodal transport logistics development plan is needed [for the country] to take full advantage of its economic growth and enhance its position as a transport hub in the region,” the EDC said.

The EDC disclosed that the draft road map identified three phases from 2015 to 2030 during which key measures were expected to be implemented to help facilitate the movement of goods and services to bring down the cost of shipping.

According to the EDC, Phase I (2015-2016) will be geared toward capacity building, involving the formulation of soft infrastructure, as well as refining and concretizing existing policies essential for a solid logistics system.

Phase II (2017-2022), meanwhile, will be for capacity extension and efficiency enhancement, which will involve the material implementation of policies, and the adaptation of efficiency measures.

Phase III (2023-2030) is for the Integrated Multi-Modal Logistics, which will see the creation of information and physical linkages with regional and global system.

The roadmapping initiative is in line with Strategy 3 of the Philippine Export Development Plan 2014-2016, which is aimed at improving the “efficiency of infrastructure services particularly energy, logistics, transportation and communication, through continuous regulatory reforms.”

It was agreed in an earlier forum spearheaded by the Philippine International Seafreight Forwarders Association (PISFA) that the final roadmap would be submitted to concerned government agencies such as National Economic Development Authority, Department of Transportation and Communications, and the Department of Trade and Industry for proper action.