The British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (BCCP) spotlighted the burgeoning Philippine infrastructure sector during ‘Concrete Investments: A Look Into the Philippine Infrastructure Industry’ event at Dusit Thani Manila. This assembly, pivotal for fostering UK-Philippines trade relations, was graced by key industry figures on February 28, 2024, setting a collaborative tone for future projects.
Public-Private Synergy: A Path to Development
At the core of discussions was the Public-Private Partnership Center’s announcement, via executive director Jeffrey Manalo, of upcoming solicited PPP projects slated for approval in 2024. These projects, ranging from infrastructure to capacity building, signify a robust pipeline aimed at enhancing national development. Highlighted were the efforts to upscale government agencies and forge academic partnerships to bolster project outcomes.
British Involvement: Strengthening Ties Through Infrastructure
Cosette Canilao, President and CEO of Aboitiz InfraCapital, shed light on the pivotal role of British companies in Davao’s development projects, emphasizing the power of collaboration in achieving sustainable infrastructure solutions. Projects like the Apo Agua Hydroelectric Power Plant and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Terminal 2 were showcased as benchmarks of successful public-private collaborations, with a nod to the Development Bank of the Philippines’ role in financing such initiatives.
Greener Pastures: Advocating for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
Royston Brockman, an Urban Development and Infrastructure specialist, emphasized the need for inclusive project selection to ensure impactful investment that benefits the broader society. The BCCP’s commitment to a green economy was evident, underscoring the importance of sustainable project frameworks that align with environmental preservation and social inclusivity.
As the curtains closed on this significant event, the message was clear: through strategic partnerships and a shared vision for sustainable development, the Philippines is on a fast track to an infrastructure revolution. The convergence of local and international expertise, backed by solid financial mechanisms, promises to elevate the nation’s infrastructure landscape, setting a precedent for future collaborations.