Marcos on port ops: ‘There are things private sector does better than gov’t’

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. (File photo from the official Facebook page of Bongbong Marcos)

MANILA, Philippines — Indian-based port operator Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ Ltd.) is eyeing to develop ports in Bataan, according to the Palace on Friday.

APSEZ Ltd. Managing Director Karan Adani met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday.

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said, “APSEZ Ltd. is looking at Bataan for its port development plan.”

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“The company plans to develop a 25-meter-deep port that can accommodate Panamax vessels,” said the PCO.

Adani said stability in the Philippines contributed to their plans to invest in the Philippines.

“Your Excellency, as a private sector, what we always look for is stability. Stability in the regulation, stability in the environment that we are operating in. That is what, as you said, you are providing,” Adani told Marcos.

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Marcos welcomed the expansion project, saying that the ports can focus on agricultural products.

“I always say in my speeches, I consider the private sector a full partner in this. It’s a 50/50 agreement,” Marcos said in the meeting.

“Government cannot do everything and there are many things that the private sector does better than government. So, we should recognize that,” he added.