PPA embarks on massive computerization, automation efforts
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is totally migrating to automated, modernized and mobile operations in its bid to transform the agency into a more responsive government organization to the demands of global trade.
As a starter, the PPA is replacing all its desktop computers with state-of-theart laptop computers for more mobility and environmentfriendly energy consumption.
PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago said the state-owned agency recently received at least a thousand brand-new Lenovo ThinkPad laptop units that will be utilized in the central brain trust of the Authority.
He added that all serviceable desktop computers will be transferred to PPA’s Port Management Offices and Terminal Management Offices guaranteeing a one-computer-is-to-one-employee ratio for the agency.
“This computerization effort is all aimed at modernizing the entire PPA operations system that will translate to efficiency and effectivity at ports,” Santiago explained.
“Aside from the computers, we are also in the process of installing modern scanners in all ports with high concentration of passengers, to ensure safety and security of the public,” Santiago stressed.
“We are targeting to complete the full migration to mobile operations in a year’s time at least for the 16 hub ports under the PPA port system,” Santiago said.
As of the moment, the agency is completing its electronic e-payment system in all the 115 PPA-controlled ports nationwide and eventually to full e-commerce migration before the end of the current administration.
This is also in line with the dream of the agency to be completely QMS- and ISO-accredited and -certified agency through this massive computerization and automation efforts.
This is also part of the commitment of the new PPA administration when it took over the agency in July of 2016 to transform the agency into a more dynamic, transparency and service-oriented GOCC through reduced permitting process and documentation on top of infusing a culture of safety in port operations as well as value-added services in the different ports leading to the further convenience of passengers as well as better efficiency and productivity for cargo operations.
A decade ago, the PPA also implemented its first automation and modernization program called PROMPT. Up to date, this still serves as the platform of the PPA automated system.