The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is stepping up its efforts to make the Philippines a leading logistics hub in Asia, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos' goal.
During the SCMAP Supply Chain Conference 2024, DTI Undersecretary Jean Pacheco outlined their comprehensive strategy to reduce transport and logistics costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
Pacheco said this includes implementing the Executive Order on pass-through fees, lowering international shipping charges, and adopting the e-airway bill.
Pacheco also said the DTI is collaborating with the private sector to develop a National Logistics Strategy and a National Logistics Investments Plan to attract more investments in logistics infrastructure.
Additionally, she said the department is working with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to establish a Logistics Industry Technical and Vocational Education and Training Board and support the Clark National Food Hub.
Pacheco emphasized the importance of private sector associations like SCMAP in navigating the complexities of the supply chain.
She also announced plans to develop a job blueprint for the wholesale and retail trade sector in partnership with SCMAP and the Philippine Retailers Association.
Pacheco added that the DTI also focuses on connecting farmers directly with institutional buyers through initiatives like the Three-Year Food Logistics Action Agenda.
The end-to-end supply chain platform developed by InsightSCS under United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) SPEED program is one example of this effort.
“These comprehensive measures are designed to optimize our supply chain, reduce costs, and enhance the competitiveness of Philippine products globally," Pacheco said.
"The DTI is unwavering in its support of the President's vision to transform the Philippines into a premier logistics hub in Asia,” she added.
DTI Acting Secretary Cristina A. Roque expressed her support for these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of streamlining logistics infrastructure and fostering strategic partnerships to drive economic growth and improve supply chain efficiency.