DOTr's Bautista orders PPA: Reduce shipping, travel costs

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista on Thursday ordered the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to reduce shipping and travel costs nationwide.

Bautista made the directive after his visit to the PPA to familiarize himself with the operations of all agencies under the DOTr.

During his visit, Bautista bared his plans to further develop the port industry and enhance the benefits of shippers and travelers.

“As we wait for the appointment of your General Manager, which will happen in the next couple of days, please make sure to further reduce shipping and travel costs nationwide and maintain the high quality of service in all ports,” Bautista said in a statement.

“All employees should also observe and maintain their integrity and transparency at all times to avoid tainting the reputation of government service,” he added.

Bautista said he will also give his full support to the agency.

“The PPA will play a very important role in achieving the goal of the president for accessible, affordable, comfortable, and safe transportation,” he said.

According to the PPA, the agency already completed at least 248 seaport development projects that are of the 586 completed seaport projects under former DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade.

The PPA added that it will complete another seven seaport projects that will accelerate the connectivity among islands in the next five to six years. —LBG, GMA News