Marina OKs 20% ferry fare hike

MANILA, Philippines —  As the crisis in the Middle East continues to affect the supply and price of oil, the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) has allowed shipping companies to increase their passenger fare rates by a maximum of 20 percent.

In an advisory on March 6, Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan said the contingency measure seeks to address the impact of the Middle East crisis on the maritime industry.

“Upward adjustment of passenger fare and cargo freight rates or fuel surcharge up to a maximum of 20 percent of the base fare (is allowed). Such adjustment or surcharge shall only be during the crisis period,” Malaluan said.

She reminded shipping companies and operators to “immediately implement a downward adjustment” once the emergency or crisis is over.

The Marina said shipping companies might also reduce or limit the number of ship trips, and consolidate passengers and cargo volume to optimize load capacity.

“Shipping companies/operators should issue travel advisories informing passengers of possible trip consolidation, schedule changes or travel limitations,” the Marina said.

Aside from the increase in fares, Marina said shipping firms could avail themselves of measures to reduce the cost of shipping operations and cushion the surge of fuel prices.

The measures include waiving the payment of the annual tonnage fee due in 2026 and a 75-percent discount on the payment of fees and charges on applications for issuance of ship documents/certificates.