DTI eyeing launch of logistics master plan in 2023

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is targeting the launch next year of the government’s national logistics strategy, which will serve as a policy guide toward developing the logistics sector in the country.

During the trade department’s Saturday program at the dzBB radio station, DTI Assistant Secretary Mary Jean Pacheco said they are hoping to have this masterplan launched early 2023.

“This is the overall plan on what the government will do in the immediate term, in the medium term and in the long term,” Pacheco said, noting that they want to be in line with President Marcos’ order to reduce logistics costs in the Philippines.

Pacheco said they have seen many problems in the logistics sector, citing in particular the problem of truckers when it comes to container deposits.

“One of the hot issues today is about taking in and out of empty containers,” said Pacheco, referring to the long-standing issue which involves returning container deposit refunds.

Pacheco also spoke about the problems caused by the ongoing repair operations at the Candaba viaduct, an almost 50-year-old bridge in Pampanga that serves as a key link between Metro Manila and North and Central Luzon.

“Alternative roads are needed while it is under repair,” said the DTI official.

Pacheco said they are also closely working with the Department of Agriculture, cooperating on improving and expanding its Farm-to-Market Development Program, which maps out the farm-to-market roads in the country, and the Transportation and Public Works departments.