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Shipping lines on the Matnog-Allen route must strictly observe their trip schedules and port dwell times, MARINA ordered
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This is to avoid congestion expected from heavy passenger traffic at the Sorsogon and Northern Samar ports during the Holy Week and summer peak travel season
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Dwell time should not exceed three hours at Matnog Port and two hours at Allen Port
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Shipping lines must also coordinate the loading of rolling cargoes and obtaining of clearances with port authorities and other government agencies/entities well in advance, MARINA says
Shipping lines operating on the Matnog-Allen route should observe their trip schedule and port dwell times to avoid congestion at the ports of Matnog in Sorsogon and Allen in Northern Samar during the Holy Week and summer holiday season.
Under Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Advisory No. 2023-08 dated March 27, the agency directed all shipping lines servicing the Matnog-Allen route to strictly comply with their sailing schedules according to their Certificate of Public Convenience or franchise.
Their port time stay at Matnog port should not be more than three hours; it should not exceed two hours at Allen port, MARINA said in the advisory signed by Administrator Hernani Fabia.
Shipping lines must also coordinate the loading of rolling cargoes and facilitation of clearances with port authorities and other government agencies/entities well ahead of their departure.
Matnog Port, a jump-off point from Luzon to the Visayas and Mindanao that handles roll-on/roll-off vessels and services passengers, has been known for its perennial port congestion and truck queuing, especially during the holidays when passengers travelling home flock to the terminal.
There have been allegations, too, of extortion activity at the gateway, such as fixers reportedly asking money from passengers and truckers being asked for payment so they can board vessels quickly.
National government agencies and the local government have been trying to find immediate solutions to the problems faced yearly by Matnog Port.
Last year, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) launched an onsite quick assistance post at Matnog where the public can relay their concerns on fixing and other forms of red tape at the Sorsogon gateway.
ARTA and concerned government agencies have also signed a joint memorandum circular aimed at addressing perennial congestion in and around the vicinity of Matnog port.
READ: ARTA, other agencies seek to address Matnog port congestion
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) last year said the number of people complaining about the long queues outside the port had dwindled significantly since the installation of a one-stop-shop that houses all necessary offices in one area.
PPA said this makes it easier and faster to arrange the booking and payment of fees, resulting in faster turnaround times for vessels. The agency said it is also collaborating with local government units to improve port users’ experience at Matnog Port.
RELATED READ: ARTA opens complaints outpost at Matnog Port to deter fixers
