PBBM Signs PPP Code And Internet Transactions Act Of 2023
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed two crucial pieces of legislation, the Public-Private Partnership Code of the Philippines (PPP Code) and the Internet Transactions Act of 2023, while in isolation after testing positive for Covid-19.
Originally slated to lead the ceremonial signing at Malacañang, the President had to cancel the public events after receiving a positive Covid-19 diagnosis the previous night. Undeterred by his health condition, President Marcos inked the historic bills from the confines of his residence in Bahay Pangulo.
Emphasizing the nation's commitment to progress and the digital economy, President Marcos remarked that the enacted laws signify a pivotal step towards accelerating development.
The PPP Code, officially recognized as Republic Act No. 11966, establishes a robust framework for collaboration between the public and private sectors. Drawing on three decades of experience with the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Law, the code aims to create a stable and predictable environment for infrastructure projects, mitigating risks and unlocking essential resources for other critical government initiatives.
Simultaneously, the Internet Transactions Act of 2023, designated as Republic Act No. 11967, ensures that citizens are equipped with mechanisms to confidently engage in the digital economy. Commonly known as the "An Act Protecting Online Consumers and Merchants Engaged in Internet Transactions," the legislation demonstrates the government's dedication to safeguarding online stakeholders while harnessing e-commerce as a catalyst for growth.
The act establishes the Electronic Commerce Bureau under the Department of Trade and Industry, tasked with implementing the new law, alongside the Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 and the Philippine E-Commerce Roadmap. The legislation not only prioritizes consumer protection but also fosters innovation and incorporates effective mechanisms for dispute resolution.
President Marcos, despite his isolation, expressed optimism that these landmark legislations would propel the Philippines forward in its pursuit of economic advancement and a seamless integration into the digital era.