Bong Go optimistic that pandemic recovery efforts on the right track as PRRD signs law amending Public Services Act
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go expressed optimism that the law amending the Public Service Act, which President Rodrigo Duterte signed on Tuesday, March 22, will help boost the Philippine economy alongside other pandemic recovery efforts being pursued by the government.
In a statement, Go said that Republic Act No. 11659 promotes healthy competition among various industries which can pave the way for more favorable prices and quality services for Filipinos.
“Mas maraming mamumuhunan, mas maraming pagtatrabahuhan at kabuhayan para sa mga Pilipino. Mas liliit ang bilang ng mga naghihirap at nagugutom na mga pamilya,” noted Go.
The senator added that the Congress has thoroughly studied the measure, particularly areas of concern such as national security. He said that the law has enough safeguards to protect the country from said concerns.
“Napag-aralan naman ng Kongreso ang posibleng implications nito lalo na sa national security at iba pang areas of potential concern. Masusi pong pinag-usapan sa komite at sa plenaryo ang mga provisions ng batas upang malagyan ng sapat na safeguards sa pagpapatupad nito,” assured Go.
The senator also voiced his confidence that in signing the law, the President remains consistent in putting the Filipino people’s interest and welfare as his top priority.
“Tiwala rin ako na sa paglagda ni Pangulong Duterte sa batas na ito, kapakanan at interes ng mga mamamayang Pilipino ang pangunahing konsiderasyon niya,” said Go.
Under the measure, railways, airports, expressways, telecommunications, and shipping will all be designated public services. This would allow 100 percent foreign ownership in these sectors.
Noting that the Public Service Act has been the governing law for 85 years already before this amendatory measure, Go went on to say that it is only right to ensure that it responds to the changing times.
“Napapanahon na rin naman ang pag-amyenda sa 85 taong gulang na batas na ito upang maging akma ito sa mga bagong hamon ng panahon, lalo na ngayong sinisikap nating makabangon mula sa kasalukuyang pandemya,” he concluded.
