PamCham exec optimistic of development through PPPs

CLARK FREEPORT -- Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) vice chairman Rene Romero said Wednesday that the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) projects with the business sector in the country will greatly push development in the regions.

Romero made this statement during the 4th Regional Development Council Public Sector Representatives Convention at Holiday Inn.

Romero said this could only be achieved through the funding of vital infrastructure projects that would help in the development of the regions, particularly those near Metro Manila and economic hubs like Cebu and Davao cities.

Romero added the proposal for road interconnection from Tarlac to Baler in Aurora and the NorthRail project should be pushed through to speed up development for the Central Luzon region in the next 10 years.

Romero also urged President Benigno Aquino III to give a stronger voice to the RDCs in the shaping of fiscal and development plans. He said there are many brilliant proposals from the private sector lodged at the RDCs.

Meanwhile, the Regional Development Council (RDC) for Central Luzon called on the National Government on Wednesday to speed up development programs for vital infrastructure projects and sectors here.

RDC co-chairman Roberto Ramirez told Sun.Star Pampanga that development works for the Clark International Airport should now be prioritized to prepare it as the next international gateway of the country.

“There is also a need to boost plans for the energy sector, particularly on the development of power plants and the further study on nuclear energy,” Ramirez said.

Both businessmen are optimistic that the private sector can play a vital role in the development of the region through government partnerships. (IOF)