Terminal fee "exorbitant"?

TAGBILARAN CITY, Philippines — Imposition and collection of P20 terminal fee per passenger at this city's port are "exorbitant," according to Pat Ruiz, an environment advocate, in a radio interview here.

The Philippine Ports Authority here, replacing the earthquake-damaged building, has put up makeshift tents as temporary terminal for passengers while waiting to board their vessels.

Ruiz said that the high terminal fee has caused burden to the passengers, while being saddled with a system that "appeared to be in disarray."

Governor Edgar Chatto, for his part, said in a separate radio interview, that it will be justifiable to reduce the terminal fee to P11 because the PPA is providing only tents for the terminal.

Port authorities should review their policy, said Chatto, adding that he will bring this matter to the attention of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) for fast action.

The City Council recently approved a resolution requesting PPA to reduce the terminal fee in response to growing public clamor.

PPA Manager Annie Maneses responded by saying that she could not ascertain if the agency was authorized to lower the fee, adding that a new two-storey terminal building will soon be constructed here.

The building of the new building has been "programed" last year and bidding for the project will start by the second semester this year, she said. — (FREEMAN)