RDC wants shipping industry opened up for new players

CEBU, Philippines - The Central Visayas Regional Development Council (RDC) has called for the liberalization of the shipping industry in the region during its full council meeting yesterday.

The RDC approved the recommendation of its Economic Development Committee urging the Maritime Industry Authority to implement laws opening up domestic water transport to new operators and investors.

Department of Trade and Industry 7 Director Asteria Caberte said the move would encourage new investments in the shipping industry in the region.

She informed the body that her office has received several inquiries from those seeking to invest in the shipping industry, particularly in routes in the region.  This is seen to increase competition and subsequently the improvement of shipping services.

RDC labor sector representative Jose Tomongha, however, expressed apprehension on the negative impact of the plan, such as the displacement of workers.

Caberte said the Department of Labor and Employment should look into the labor aspect of the matter, and assured that the sector would not be left out.

She said, though, that safety nets are not yet in place, prompting Tomongha to put on record his disapproval of the resolution.

The RDC recognizes that the shipping industry is one of the contributing factors in the growth of the tourism industry in the region, as confirmed by National Economic Development Authority-7 Assistant Regional Director Efren Carreon.

Some RDC members have observed that quality of services of the shipping industry is declining, as evidenced by complaints on delayed and unannounced cancellation of trips and poor accommodations.

Substandard services are reportedly affecting tourism, as these create discomfort and hassle to passengers, especially tourists.

Supporting the call, Siquijor Mayor Mei Ling Quezon expressed hope to have additional sea trips soon in the province.

A tourist destination, Siquijor is accessible by boats and fastcrafts that ply the Cebu-Siquijor and Dumaguete-Siquijor routes daily. (FREEMAN)