Leading representatives from the United Portusers Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (UPC) recently conducted a high-level courtesy call with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to address critical bottlenecks and safety concerns within the nation’s trucking and logistics sector.
The meeting focused on aligning private sector operations with government regulations to ensure a more efficient, safe, and modernized supply chain.
The dialogue centered on three pillars of the trucking industry:
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Driver Assessment and Certification: The UPC expressed its commitment to the Truck Trailer Driver Assessment and Certification Program. This initiative aims to professionalize the industry by ensuring that drivers of heavy articulated vehicles undergo rigorous competency checks, reducing road accidents and improving operational reliability.
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Road Safety Protocols: Both parties discussed the harmonization of safety standards, emphasizing that well-maintained fleets and skilled drivers are the backbone of a resilient economy.
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Anti-Overloading Policies: The UPC and LTO revisited current overloading regulations to ensure they are both strictly enforced and practically viable, protecting the country’s road infrastructure while maintaining the flow of essential goods.
The UPC delegation was led by Ma. Flordeliza C. Leong, President, who emphasized the importance of a symbiotic relationship between port users and the LTO. Joining her were:
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Carlo E. Umali, Vice President for Internal Affairs
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Irene Manguiat-Tan, Vice President for External Affairs
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Ruperto S. Bayocot, Trustee “Our goal is to create a seamless integration between regulatory compliance and logistical efficiency,” stated the UPC leadership. “By working closely with the LTO, we are ensuring that the trucking industry remains a safe and robust contributor to Philippine trade.”
The LTO welcomed the UPC’s proactive stance, noting that private sector feedback is essential in refining policies that affect the daily movement of cargo across the archipelago.
