In a move to tackle the escalating issue of exorbitant international shipping charges, a House leader is spearheading House Bill 10507, also known as the International Maritime Trade Competitiveness Act.
Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez seeks in his proposal to mitigate the adverse impact of these fees on logistics costs, which ultimately burden Filipino consumers.
The bill garnered support from importers, exporters, and logistics service providers, who have long voiced concerns about the unchecked rise in shipping costs.
“The International Maritime Trade Competitiveness Act is a direct response to the urgent appeals from our industry stakeholders,” said Rodriguez. “It aims to establish a regulatory framework that fosters transparency and fairness in the maritime sector.”
A key provision of the bill is the expansion of the Maritime Industry Authority’s (MARINA) mandate to regulate and monitor international shipping charges.
This measure is expected to cultivate a more competitive maritime trade environment, thereby creating a level playing field for domestic manufacturers, exporters, and importers.
During a meeting last August 12, prominent industry figures voiced their support for the bill, underscoring the necessity for government intervention to address the issue of unreasonable shipping charges.
Rodriguez underscored the significance of a streamlined and cost-effective supply chain and logistics ecosystem. “Through collaborative efforts, we can curtail logistics costs and guarantee that essential goods remain accessible, available, and affordable for our citizens,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Henry Basilio, chair of the Export Development Council (EDC) committee on transport and logistics hailed the Cagayan de Oro lawmaker for filing HB 10507, which aims to address this longstanding and recurring issue that contributes to high logistics costs in the country.
“This bill represents a significant step towards ensuring a more equitable and competitive maritime trade landscape in the Philippines. It is our fervent hope to see this bill enacted into law as soon as possible,” said Basilio.
