Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago announced that the long-delayed implementation of the online Centralized Ticketing System (CTS) is now set to proceed within the year.
In an interview during the unveiling of the PhP5.7-billion expansion project of ATI and DP World at the Manila South Harbor, Santiago said that Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon has directed the implementation of the CTS.
Administrative Order No. 12-2019, titled “Policy on the Centralized Ticketing System (CTS) Relative to an Online Application Integrating the Booking and Payment Processes for the Use of Ship and Passenger Terminal in a Single Platform,” was drafted under then-DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade.
However, strong opposition from the Philippine Inter-island Shipping Association (PISA) stalled its rollout. Recently, PISA asked the new DOTr Secretary Dizon to abrogate the AO and remove it from the Electronic Terminal Management System (ETMS).
“We’re waiting for a legal pass,” Santiago said, noting that the PPA has already requested guidance from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC) legal teams. He explained that a department order or circular may be required to formally implement the CTS.
While acknowledging the concerns of domestic shipping operators, Santiago emphasized that the previous two DOTr secretaries supported the AO, which underwent thorough public consultations, including with PISA members.
He also noted that it was during former Arthur Tugade’s tenure as PPA board chairman that the AO was adopted, officially assigning implementation to the PPA. Additionally, former DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista signed a Joint Memorandum Circular—initiated by the Anti-Red Tape Authority—supporting the CTS pilot at Matnog Port.
“From Secretary Tugade’s time, all three DOTr secretaries have recognized the importance of a digital, online ticketing system to address the many challenges faced by Filipinos when purchasing tickets from shipping companies,” Santiago said.
Santiago assured the public that the CTS will not result in increased passenger fares, as its primary goal is to streamline and improve the ticketing process.
He added that the system would not also duplicate the existing ticketing platforms of shipping lines. According to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), only 5 percent of shipping lines currently offer an online ticketing system. Those with existing platforms may continue to operate, but they must integrate with the CTS to ensure visibility by the Philippine Coast Guard and MARINA, preventing the issuance of excess tickets.
Despite the prior consultations already conducted, Santiago expressed openness to further dialogue with stakeholders if necessary.
