To ensure the safety and fair treatment of travelers during the Lenten season, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez led a high-level inspection of the Batangas Port Passenger Terminal early Friday.
The inspection team included Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Santiago, representatives from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). The visit focused on two critical areas: handling the Holy Week passenger surge and monitoring shipping fares in light of global oil price hikes caused by Middle East unrest.
With reports of rising travel costs, Secretary Lopez personally inspected ticketing booths to verify current shipping rates. While maritime fares are deregulated, the Secretary reminded operators that any price adjustments must remain within reasonable limits.
“MARINA has issued a memorandum circular stating that any fare increase must not exceed 20%,” Secretary Lopez emphasized. “We are encouraging passengers to immediately report any shipping lines charging rates beyond these stipulated guidelines.”
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago reaffirmed that the agency continues to provide financial relief to vulnerable sectors. The passenger terminal fee remains strictly free for:
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Senior Citizens
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Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
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Students
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Uniformed Personnel
Addressing proposals to suspend the government’s share of port charges to combat inflation, GM Santiago presented data suggesting such a move would have a negligible impact on consumer prices.
According to a PPA study, logistics costs account for less than 3% of the retail price of everyday goods like rice and sardines. Of that small percentage, the government’s share represents only about 10%, meaning it affects the final shelf price by less than 1%.
“The primary drivers of product costs are shipping charges—which account for over 50% of the logistics chain—followed by trucking expenses at 35%,” Santiago explained.
In alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to conserve energy, the PPA has implemented aggressive fuel and electricity-saving protocols:
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Modified Work Week: Adoption of a 4-day work week.
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Strict Facility Management: Air-conditioning units are turned off by 5:00 p.m., with thermostats maintained at a minimum of 24°C.
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Fuel Efficiency: Implementation of a “no idling policy” for agency vehicles and mandatory carpooling for official travel.
Batangas Port is one of the nation’s most vital maritime hubs, with a standard capacity of 8,000 passengers. During peak seasons like Holy Week, it facilitates the movement of up to 25,000 travelers connecting to the Visayas and Mindanao.
