Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno reiterated the government’s plan to tap into the public-private partnership (PPP) mechanism to help finance massive infrastructure programs.
“PPPs can be undertaken through various modes, such as the Build-Operate-Transfer Law. Its recently revised Implementing Rules and Regulations addressed stakeholder concerns on the financial viability and bankability of PPP projects, potential delays, rigid processes, and ambiguous provisions,” Diokno said, speaking before members of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. late last week.
The PPP Act was approved by the House of Representatives on third reading in December last year and is now pending at the Senate.
Early this month, the National Economic and Development Authority Board approved 194 “high-impact” infrastructure flagship projects worth P9 trillion, 45 of which is eyed to be financed through PPPs.
Meanwhile, Diokno noted the importance of the E-Governance Bill recently approved at the Lower House in enhancing the ease of doing business through digitalization.
“Once enacted, the Bill is expected to enhance the ease of doing business in the country and improve public trust in the government. As business leaders, I hope that you will lead the charge in ushering digital transformation initiatives in your respective fields and industries,” he said.
