The Japanese government has committed to supporting the modernization of the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) by providing expertise and resources to upgrade its infrastructure, particularly in mail and parcel distribution, according to PHLPost Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos.
The initiative, driven by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan Post, and Toshiba, aims to enhance PHLPost’s operations, with a focus on e-commerce and digital transformation.
Japanese consultants are conducting a comprehensive study at PHLPost’s Central Mail Exchange Center in Pasay to identify key areas for improvement in the mail and parcel distribution process.
The partnership follows a successful visit by Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tsuge Yoshifumi, a former postmaster himself, who expressed his understanding of PHLPost’s needs and pledged Japan’s commitment to help modernize the agency.
“During his visit to PHLPost, Japan State Minister Tsuge, who is a former Post Office Postmaster, understands our needs and is committed to helping modernize the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) and explore potential collaborations,” Carlos said.
Digital Transformation for E-Commerce Growth
Japan’s assistance is timely, as PHLPost is positioning itself to meet the growing demands of the e-commerce sector.
In 2021, e-commerce sales in the Philippines reached $17 billion and are expected to grow by 17% to $24 billion by 2025, according to a study.
As online shopping continues to grow, efficient postal services are crucial to supporting this sector.
Carlos emphasized that adopting Japan’s advanced postal technologies and operational expertise would play a pivotal role in enhancing PHLPost’s services, particularly in improving mail processing and reintroducing banking services at post offices.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The collaboration is a testament to the strong bilateral ties between Japan and the Philippines, focusing on leveraging Japan’s postal expertise to address the evolving needs of the Philippine postal system.
The cooperation will help PHLPost reestablish its reliability in postal services and tap into the e-commerce business.
Japan’s support aligns with its strategic intent to boost PHLPost’s capabilities by integrating advanced digital infrastructure and streamlining operations to enhance efficiency.
This modernization effort is expected to result in faster, more reliable postal services for Filipinos and contribute to the overall digital transformation of the country.
Looking Ahead
The comprehensive study being conducted by Japanese experts is expected to result in significant improvements in PHLPost’s mail processing system, laying the foundation for the postal agency’s reentry into the e-commerce and banking sectors.
With the backing of Japan, PHLPost aims to modernize and expand its services, making it a more competitive player in the region’s postal and logistics sectors.
For more information on PHLPost’s modernization efforts, visit their website at www.phlpost.gov.ph.
