THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)is dropping an earlier plan to allow shipping lines to bid for the management and operations of the North Harbor once the privatization process goes on high gear starting this month.Aida Dizon, PPA assistant general manager for finance and administration, said the decision will ensure that the port facility will be open to all ship owners and not be used as a tool to harass competitors.She added that the PPA will thoroughly screen prospective bidders to guarantee that these organizations are not dummies of shipping lines.PPA is privatizing the North Harbor to pave the way for its modernization to make the port at par with world standards.The PPA earlier said it is optimistic the terms of reference (TOR) for the North Harbor bidding will be finalized in March for review
and approval before the Investment Coordination Committee of the National Economic and Development Authority. A decision is expected in 30 days.Among revisions in the TOR was the shift to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry proposal to equip North Harbor with two cargo and one passenger terminals from the earlier approved three cargo and one passenger terminals as well as inclusion of a clause that will give priority to current port workers once a new concessionaire takes over.The TOR also provides a generic clause for the entry of at least two operators to foster competition and keep port fees low.
