The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) will continue to encourage more private sector participation in the management, operation and development of the country's ports.

This was stressed by the newly-appointed PPA general manager Atty. Juan Sta. Ana as he took over from the former general manager Atty. Oscar Sevilla.

"We should level the playing field so that all players live and operate by the same rules and adopt a policy of fair, open, healthy and viable competition," said Sta. Ana.

"Except for the regular functions, PPA should adopt the laissez faire doctrine of less government intervention so as to encourage, support, and influence the rapid growth of economic activity."

"We will have simpler and predictable policies that are clear and easy to implement. For our co-workers in PPA, we will consciously implement promotions from within that will enable deserving and senior civil service workers to grow in this organization."

PPA would continue to encourage and support the business sectors and treat them as partners without compromising, however, the objectives and principles of the organization, Sta Ana said.

"For the public, we should endeavor to serve them with utmost efficiency in the timely delivery of port services," he added.