The Philippine government is partnering with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to strengthen the implementation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects in the country.

The PPP Center and USAID signed a memorandum of understanding that will provide training and capacity development programs to ensure institutions are well-equipped to undertake PPP processes.

In cooperation with USAID, the feasibility of funding pre-project activities through the PPPC’s Project Development and Monitoring Facility may be evaluated.

“With this Memorandum of Understanding, USAID looks forward to leveraging our collective strengths, expertise, and resources so our efforts build upon each other’s successes. It is essential to foster an environment where partnerships can thrive, ensuring that both the public and private sectors can work together effectively toward common goals,” said Jay de Quiros, USAID economic growth specialist and private sector engagement co-lead.

For PPPC’s Executive Director Ma. Cynthia Hernandez, the agreement “articulates the commonalities between our objectives and approaches and establishes a basis for ongoing dialogue and cooperation.”

The memorandum was signed by Hernandez and Rebekah Eubanks, USAID acting mission director.

Furthermore, the USAID facilitated the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the PPPC and the local governments of Tagbilaran, General Santos, and Zamboanga cities that will establish a framework for developing and executing PPP projects.

“PPPs are crucial for addressing infrastructure and public service challenges by leveraging private sector investments to mobilize financial resources and bring specialized expertise, ultimately leading to higher quality and more efficient public service delivery without straining public finances,” the PPP Center said.

“USAID supports numerous development projects in the Philippines, covering various sectors including economic development and local governance, environmental management, energy, health, education, and workforce development,” it added.