The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is pushing for a fully digitized port systems as well as development of modern logistics parks and regional intermodal hubs to make Philippine logistics faster, smarter, and more cost-efficient.
PCCI Transport & Logistics Committee Director Michael Tan pointed out that improving the country’s logistics sector is critical because the archipelagic nature of the Philippines naturally makes logistics complex and costly. “But this is exactly why we must innovate faster. Smart infrastructure and digital adoption are indeed the foundation for a globally competitive supply chain,” Tan said.
Thus, the 51st Philippine Business Conference & Expo (PBC&E) with the theme “The Future is Now: Unleash the Power of Digital Transformation” slated on October 20-21, 2025 will tackle the issue of technological innovation especially in the country’s logistics sector. The PBC is the country’s premier annual event that brings together top government officials, business leaders and executives, industry experts and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“We work closely with both policymakers and businesses to identify bottlenecks and propose actionable solutions. Our goal is to make sure that policy decisions translate into real-world improvements on the ground,” Tan said.
Technology for reliable supply chains
PCCI has called for the adoption of new technologies, such as the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and GPS tracking to dramatically improve the overall supply chain as they optimize delivery routes in real-time, enhance transparency, and reduce losses and inefficiencies in cargo handling.
Pierre Curay, Chair of the PCCI Supply Chain & Logistics Committee, explained: “Technology levels the playing field for Philippine logistics. When you can track shipments in real time, integrate customs clearance digitally, and optimize routes instantly, you cut costs, reduce delays, and open doors for more trade and investment.”
According to the PCCI, digital transformation enables businesses to adopt innovations such as real-time tracking, data-driven route optimization, automated warehousing, and integrated supply chain platforms.
The digital maturity of logistics also directly affects ease of doing business, investment attractiveness, and trade performance.
PCCI-led Advocacies
Through its partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry, the PCCI supports the 3-Year Food Logistics Action Agenda, which aims to modernize the country’s food supply chain through optimized logistics, cold chain infrastructure, and port facilities.
PCCI also collaborates with Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) to encourage MSMEs to locate in economic zones and become local partners for foreign investments, completing the local supply chain.
The organization actively works with government agencies to accelerate the adoption of electronic customs clearance, real-time cargo tracking platforms, and integrated transport corridors that connect ports, airports, and economic zones.
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) expects to reach cargo volume of 301.47 MMT by the end of the year – an ambitious target that Philippine producers and traders can realistically meet and may even surpass if logistical bottlenecks are addressed, shipping costs are reduced, and technology and infrastructure gaps are resolved.
The logistics industry continues to grapple with challenges that threaten its long-term competitiveness. Compared to neighboring countries like Singapore and Malaysia, the Philippines lags in tech-driven logistics zones, last-mile innovation, and intermodal efficiency.
With cargo volumes growing and ASEAN neighbors accelerating their logistics innovations, the Philippines faces a clear choice: maintain the status quo or invest boldly in the future.
“Every delay in embracing technology is a missed opportunity for trade growth. If we want to be a serious player in global commerce, the time to transform our logistics sector is now,” Mr. Curay said.
