ATI launches online platform for port fees

MANILA, Philippines — Listed port operator Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) has launched its new online platform for contactless transactions, making the settlement of port fees faster and more convenient.

Developed by the firm’s in-house technology experts, ATI’s ePay Portals allow port users to make online payments on a real-time basis, 24/7.

ATI said the portals are linked to its e-banking partners, Banco de Oro and Metrobank. The portal allows customers to conveniently and securely pay import and export-related fees and charges online.

ATI said more banks and electronic options would be added in the future.

“As a trade enabler and port technology pioneer, ATI is committed to adapting smart and innovative solutions to fast-track trade and minimize supply chain disruptions, especially during this global pandemic,” ATI executive vice president William Khoury said.

ATI said the digital push is aligned with the Joint Memorandum Circular  01 recently issued by the Anti Red Tape Authority, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Ports Authority and the Bureau of Customs, which mandates the use of online platforms for filing, processing, and payment of all port and cargo-related charges.

Aside from facilitating trade, the move is part of public and private sector initiatives against COVID-19, the company said.

During the transition, ATI said port users could still make payments through over-the-counter bank deposits and the revolving fund facility managed by the firm’s billing and collections unit for a limited time to avoid delays.

“We encourage our stakeholders to utilize our ePay Portals for easy, convenient, safe and transparent port transactions,” Khoury said.

ATI, which operates the Manila South Harbor and Batangas Container Terminal, finished the first semester with a net income of P1.15 billion, down 46.3 percent from P2.14 billion in the same period last year amid the economic contraction triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Revenues during the six-month period fell by 28.2 percent year-on-year to P5.05 billion on the back of lower container volumes.