MANILA, Philippines — Major logistics firms UPS and AC Logistics joined the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Supply Chain and Logistics Center (SCLC), a network that connects MSMEs with logistics providers.
The two companies joined eight other firms in bringing SCLC membership to 39 companies across key logistics sectors.
READ: DTI widens supply chain links amid booming exports
AC Logistics, the logistics arm of Ayala Corp., gained a boost after AP Moller Capital acquired a 40-percent stake in the company to help expand its cold chain, air cargo, contract logistics and other businesses.
Meanwhile, Atlanta-based logistics company UPS has a strong presence in the Philippines, including at Clark International Airport, where it plans to open an 80,000-square-meter facility by September.
Other new members include AP Cargo Logistics Network Corp., Crystal Cold Storage Inc., DSV Contract Logistics Inc., Magsaysay Logistics and Transport Corp., Orient Freight International Inc., Robinsons Logistix and Industrials Inc., and SyCip Gorres Velayo & Co.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said expanding the network would support exports and help lower logistics costs for MSMEs through discounted rates from accredited partners.
From January to May, Philippine exports rose 10.6 percent year-on-year to $37.87 billion.
“We’re really pushing the exports to the max because of their bullish growth,” Roque said.
“Supply chain and logistics are important in moving goods. But if (businesses) don’t know how much is the cost, then the prices of our products will go up again,” she added. “We really need to work closely with these companies.”
Launched in 2025, the SCLC includes members such as Federal Express Corp., Grab Philippines, Maersk, J&T Express Philippines Inc., Shopee Xpress Philippines Inc., JRS Express, GO21 Inc., Toyota Motor Philippines and Victory Liner Inc.
The initiative brings companies and the DTI together to expand logistics services, address supply chain issues and advance the logistics roadmap.
READ: DTI launches supply chain, logistics center to support MSMEs
AC Logistics CEO Erry Hardianto said the partnership would help strengthen coordination between the government, logistics providers and businesses.
“I’m hopeful that DTI becomes the catalyst connecting the private sector, like logistics companies, but also the consumers,” Hardianto said. “It will take a lot of time for us if we have to connect individually, so DTI will be able to facilitate that.” /pai INQ