Calling it a "direct hit on the pockets" of Filipinos, FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Rep. Brian Poe has rejected the proposed 233 percent increase in passenger terminal fees at the Batangas Port.

Poe, a member of the "House Hotshots", stressed that the proposed increase would significantly affect workers, students, small traders, and families who depend on the port for their daily needs.

“This is a direct hit on the pockets of our kababayans. Batangas Port is not just another transport facility; it’s a vital lifeline,” he said in a statement Wednesday, Aug. 6.

“It’s the commuter, the small trader, and the fisherfolk who absorb the fallout. Transport costs don’t exist in a vacuum—they ripple outward," noted Poe.

Poe's opposition to the proposal is consistent with that of Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor and other local government unit (LGU) officials across Mimaropa.

Mindoro, a tourism and economic hub in Southern Luzon, heavily relies on Batangas Port for passenger travel, cargo transport, and supply chain connectivity.

While acknowledging the importance of maintaining modern infrastructure, Poe emphasized that development must not come at the expense of fairness and social equity.

“Progress must never come at the expense of fairness and compassion. Infrastructure should serve the people, not burden them,” stressed the neophyte solon.

The 33-year-old congressman lauded Governor Dolor’s initiative to seek legal remedies and the swift action of LGUs, including the city council of Calapan, the municipal council of Odiongan, and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Oriental Mindoro, for passing resolutions against the hike.

“We commend Gov. Dolor for not only raising the alarm but for being prepared to take legal steps if necessary. I lend my full support to these efforts," Poe said.

He called on the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to prioritize public welfare over corporate profitability.

“We strongly urge the PPA to reconsider the application of Asian Terminals Inc.–Batangas (ATIB). There must be a more balanced, transparent, and consultative approach,” Poe said.