Background and Reason for Repeal
- Implementation of Executive Order No. 212 was held in abeyance due to a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 29, 1996.
- The memorandum involved representatives from the government, port workers, and cargo handlers.
- Concerns were raised regarding the potential negative ramifications of implementing Executive Order No. 212.
Authority of the Philippine Ports Authority
- The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is empowered by its charter under Presidential Decree No. 857.
- PPA has sufficient power and authority to pursue the goals of demonopolization and privatization of government ports.
- The implementation of PPA’s powers does not generate the concerns associated with Executive Order No. 212.
Policy Objectives
- Accelerate the demonopolization of government ports in the Philippines.
- Speed up the privatization process of government port operations.
Legal Effect and Implementation
- By virtue of the powers vested in the President, Executive Order No. 410 repeals the earlier order without delay.
- The Executive Order affirms the PPA’s role as the key implementing agency for the policy concerning government ports.
- This measure reinforces the government’s commitment to reform the port sector with minimal disruption to stakeholders.
Signatories and Formal Adoption
- The order was signed and adopted by then-President Fidel V. Ramos.
- The Executive Secretary, Ruben D. Torres, countersigned the order.
- The date of effectivity and adoption is May 1, 1997.