It called a public hearing for Friday, Aug. 14, on a proposed memorandum circular that would grant a 25-percent adjustment in existing cargo-handling tariff rates for domestic cargoes at all Cebu ports.
According to the CPA public affairs office, the proposed memorandum circular stemmed from a request submitted by the Port of Cebu Association of Cargo Handling Operators Inc. (PCACHOI), an association of cargo handlers.
The request was prompted by rising fuel prices and operating expenses, including labor and equipment costs incurred in cargo-handling operations.
While PCACHOI sought a 25-percent adjustment, the CPA Public Affairs Office said the final rate would depend on the outcome of Friday’s consultation.
Careful review
In a statement, the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) urged authorities to review the proposed increase in detail, including its justification, the cost structure, and its projected impact on businesses and consumers.
“With the Philippine economy growing by only 2.3 percent in the second quarter of 2026, we believe the timing of a substantial tariff increase deserves careful scrutiny," MCCO said.
" At this stage, we would encourage the Cebu Ports Authority and other stakeholders to assess whether the proposed adjustment is truly timely and necessary, and to consider its potential impact on business competitiveness, inflation, and the cost of doing business in Cebu,” it added.
Any proposed increase in cargo handling tariffs—particularly one as significant as 25 percent—had to be studied carefully in terms of its timing and broader economic impact.
“At a time when businesses are already facing weaker market demand, higher operating costs, rising wages, elevated fuel prices, and the risks associated with the coming El Niño, an additional increase in logistics costs could put further pressure on businesses, particularly those in Mandaue and other highly industrialized and logistics-dependent areas,” the MCCI said.
Value chain
Being an essential component of the supply chain, higher logistics costs would eventually have an impact on the prices of goods and, consequently, consumer purchasing power, said the chamber, which has members who have direct ties to the logistics sector.
The MCCI said the concern was not simply the additional cost to businesses, but the potential ripple effect throughout the supply chain—from manufacturers and traders to distributors, retailers, and ultimately consumers.
“MCCI will continue to engage with the relevant stakeholders and advocate for a balanced approach that ensures the sustainability and efficiency of port operations without unnecessarily adding to the burden on businesses and consumers,” MCCI said. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
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