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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Digitalization plan in Matnog port to stop fixers, end congestion—ARTA

Digitalization plan in Matnog port to stop fixers, end congestion—ARTA

Published Apr 5, 2023 06:15 am
Vehicular congestion and illegal fixing in and around Matnog Port are expected to be eliminated under a digitalization plan implemented by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and the local government. (Photo courtesy of ARTA)
The local government of Matnog, the provincial government of Sorsogon, and ARTA will be implementing a joint memorandum circular (JMC) that will address vehicular congestion and illegal fixing at the Matnog Port.
"When completely implemented, this JMC will benefit not only the logistics sector, but all Filipinos. With the burdensome congestion addressed, there will be less logistics costs that will be passed on to consumers," ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez said in a statement.
According to Perez, the JMC's streamlining and digitalization approaches are provided by the Ease of Doing Business Law.
Under the JMC, a one-stop shop (OSS) will be established to provide an online portal for ticket reservation and one-time payment ahead of their arrival at the port. This ticket will be inclusive of all relevant fees such as the Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) terminal fee, passenger terminal building fee, and other related processes.
The OSS shall also serve as a single window that will facilitate the unhampered queuing, pre-marshalling and other verification processes of cargo and passenger vehicles prior to embarkation.
To avoid traffic congestion in the highway, the local governments of Sorsogon and Matnog together with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and shipping companies, shall discuss the establishment of a holding/pre-marshalling area that will allow for the proper queuing of vehicles that have confirmed bookings subject to the schedule of the departing vessel.
Perez also said that the agreement shall mandate the posting of an updated Citizen's Charter of all regulating agencies reflecting all documentary requirements and fees. These shall be posted within the port area, its vicinity, and on the online portal after 20 days of its effectivity.
Lastly, all concerned agencies shall be monitoring and reporting illegal fixing activities.
"ARTA is encouraging everyone to never patronize fixers and instead, report these illegal activities and those who are in collusion with these fixers," the ARTA chief urged.
He further said that these acts are considered as violations and are punishable under Sections 21 and 22 of the Ease of Doing Business Law.
Other agencies under the JMC are the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police (PNP), PPA, Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Provincial Government of Sorsogon.
Matnog Port is a key area in the Philippine logistics operations as it serves as a vital entry and exit point of essential goods and products in Luzon to and from Visayas and Mindanao. It is also a major gateway for travelers to Visayas and Mindanao.

Related Tags

Ernesto Perez ARTA Ease of Doing Business Law Port of Matnog
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