QC dads propose PPP task force

MANILA, Philippines - Six Quezon City councilors have recommended the creation of a task force that will carry out projects under the public-private partnership (PPP), or build-operate-transfer (BOT), scheme.

“This implementation is geared toward national growth and development through the indispensible assistance of the private sector,” read the proposed ordinance currently pending before committee level in the city council.

The measure was co-introduced by Councilors Precious Hipolito-Castelo, Jessica Castelo-Daza, Melencio Castelo, Karl Castelo, Gian Sotto and Lala Sotto.

According to the local lawmakers, the creation of the unit is in compliance with the BOT law, which allows concerned agencies or local government units to establish their own unit to oversee such projects.

The task force, which will be composed of various local government officials, will be under the office of the mayor.

It will be responsible for the conduct of “public consultations with the developers, contractors, and other concerned units for the development, improvements for the implementation of the rules, regulations and guidelines.”

It is also tasked to liberalize the regulatory framework for pricing as well as come up with a clear framework for structuring BOT contracts, particularly on the scope of authority and obligations and rights of the public sector.

The proposal came amid pronouncements from city government officials – led by Mayor Herbert Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte – in its plans to enter into various PPP agreements.

Bautista earlier said that PPPs would boost the city’s infrastructure support and physical make-up, expressing interest in entering such schemes to develop lots occupied by public markets and slaughterhouses.

He also cited PPPs with private schools as a possible solution to solve classroom shortage in the city.

Meanwhile, Belmonte – who acts as the city’s tourism czar – also announced possible PPPs in the development of a P100-million entertainment boulevard in Barangay South Triangle.