DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista (Photo courtesy of PPA)
MANILA – Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista on Thursday directed the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to look into reducing shipping and travel costs nationwide while continuing to develop the port industry sector.
“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 during a surprise visit at the PPA office in Manila.
Bautista said his plans for the PPA include supporting government-to-government interconnectivity, developing the use of information and communications technology (ICT), recruiting more workers, and ensuring compliance with international standards.
“All employees should also observe and maintain their integrity and transparency at all times to avoid tainting the reputation of Government service,” he said.
Bautista said the visit is part of a tour meant to familiarize himself with attached agencies of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
“The [PPA] will play a very important role in achieving the goal of the president for accessible, affordable, comfortable, and safe transportation. Help me achieve that desire of the President to help the riding public,” he said.
On Monday, he made a surprise inspection of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) while incognito and sought feedback from regular passengers on the services of the rail line. (PNA)
