Makati City: Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco reaffirmed the government’s goal of making logistics and supply chain in the country more efficient to reduce cost of goods. During the launch of LogisticsNews.PH in Makati City Monday night, Pacheco cited a study by Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI), which noted that strengthening infrastructure should be a priority measure to improve the local supply chain.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pacheco said among the recommendations of the JTTRI are integrating and enhancing the functions of Manila, Batangas, and Subic ports to improve capacity; continuous development of double track railways and proper maintenance, installation, and upgrading of freight stations; reducing load on local roads through barge transportation; establishment of a stable roll-on roll-off network; development of logistics hubs in key areas near major ports; and expansion of logistics networks outside metropolitan areas.

Other measures include the establishment of a reliable cold chain logistics system, utilization of information technology in logistics, and enhancement and strengthening cooperation among logistics stakeholders. She said such measures will help the government achieve its goal of making goods available, accessible, and affordable, as well as getting the right product at the right time and in a reliable manner.

She stressed that improving the logistics and supply chain in the country not only needs investments from the government but also from the private sector. “We hope that everyone can see, whether its public investments or private investments, that connecting our archipelago is one of our dreams,” she said.

LogisticsNews.PH is a business news online platform focusing on trade and logistics updates.