Shipping fares go up by 30%

MANILA, Philippines, April 1 ------ The Maritime Industry Authority has allowed domestic shipping lines to adjust their passenger fare and cargo rates by a maximum of 30 percent. However, Marina said the 30 percent adjustment would not cover agricultural products and other basic commodities. “Notwithstanding the foregoing, the transport of agricultural products and basic/critical commodities shall continue to be given priority and remain subject to the 20 percent limit for rate adjustment attributed to fuel price fluctuations,” it said.

Marina issues weekly required rate adjustments (RRA) to be followed by the shipping operators. It reminded shipping operators yesterday that before they could implement an upward rate adjustment they would have to notify Marina and the general public by at least three calendar days before the effectivity date, either through publication in a newspaper of general or regional circulation or posting the rate adjustment in conspicuous areas such as at affected ports, vessels, company premises, passenger terminals, ticketing offices and official company websites or social media accounts.

Once the prices of global fuel goes down, the operators should implement a corresponding downward rate adjustment that would become effective in three calendar days. These announcements should also be posted or published, Marina said. The agency reminded shipping operators that they would be subjected to administrative fines and sanctions if they do not follow these guidelines and overcharge beyond the allowed RRA.

Source: philstar.com