Australian trade exec lauds PPP program

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines is in a class of its own in the way the government has handled and rolled out its public-private partnership (PPP) program, a senior Australian trade official said.

“PPP’s are hard, there is no doubt about that. Bidding for PPP actually cost a lot of money. The Philippine government has awarded over 10 PPP projects and have another 14 in the pipeline, that’s a magnificent achievement,” said Anthony Weymouth, senior trade commissioner at the Australian Embassy. 

“Show me any other ASEAN neighbor who has done that. There is none. So the Philippines in the region is viewed as sort of best in class in traversing their PPP agenda and this current government is very supportive of that and will continue to be,” he added.

ASEAN pertains to the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, of which the Philippines is a member.

Since the program was launched in 2010, 12 PPP projects were already awarded, while 14 others are in different stages of procurement.

Specifically, two projects are for roll-out, seven are seeking government approvals, and two others are undergoing their respective studies, the PPP Center said.

The government has invited Australian companies to participate in the bidding of major infrastructure projects under the PPP scheme. 

In response, Weymouth said the Australian government and private sector would continue to support not only the PPP, but also local firms’ bid to expand their footprint abroad.   

“It’s a great year for partnering, so we’re here to help Philippine companies take advantage of ASEAN integration,” Weymouth said.

“I know a lot of Filipino companies are concerned about ASEAN integration but to me, it represents a great opportunity for them. They should be embracing the opportunity that the larger market place presents. Australian companies and Australian government are looking to help if we can,” he said.