Suarez says gov’t ‘somewhat slow’ in doing projects with private sector

Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez on Thursday criticized the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte for being “somewhat slow” in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.

Suarez, who says it is his role as House Minority Leader to evaluate the government, argued that the Philippine economy is only in the “doldrums” as Duterte described because it is “driven” by the private sector.

“I am telling them they are somewhat slow,” Suarez told ABS-CBN News Channel, citing that the present government remains slack while the private sector is already active in many partnership projects.

“It’s not healthy,” Suarez said when sought for comment on the country’s economy, adding that agriculture, fishing, and other lines of business are “not doing well” or “dull.”

According to Suarez, the economy is only growing primarily because of the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry and because of overseas Filipino workers.

“We are doing well because it’s private-sector driven. Ang trabaho ng gobyerno kasabay ka dapat (The government’s part should go together), you do your role,” Suarez said when asked if he believes the President’s remark.

READ: Duterte: Economy in the doldrums

Suarez also said he will go against the proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion 2 (TRAIN 2) or the second package of tax reforms, if his comments will not be considered in the lower Chamber’s sessions. Suarez said tax reforms are sources of funds for PPP projects.

Suarez also insists he remains as the minority leader even after Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was elected as the new House Speaker.  /muf