The Department of Transportation has unveiled a sweeping initiative to reduce terminal fees at air and sea ports nationwide, aiming to mitigate the economic strain caused by soaring fuel prices linked to Middle East turmoil. Secretary Giovanni Lopez detailed the measures during a press conference on March 24, 2026, emphasizing their role in stabilizing prices for essential goods.
Drastic Cuts for Agricultural Transport
In a significant move, roll-on/roll-off (Roro) terminal fees for class 3 and 4 vehicles transporting raw agricultural products—such as grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, poultry, and livestock—will be slashed from P516 to just P1. This reduction, proposed during a meeting with the maritime sector, is pending approval from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), with a decision expected imminently.
Once greenlit, the "piso Roro" fees will take effect no later than April 15 and remain in place for six months, unless terminated earlier. Lopez highlighted that this measure directly targets the logistics costs of basic commodities, helping to cushion consumers from price spikes.
No General Fee Hikes at Sea Ports
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago confirmed that passenger and cargo terminal fees at all PPA-operated sea ports will not increase despite rising oil prices. However, he clarified that port charges play a minimal role in overall goods pricing, with the government's share accounting for only 10% of these fees—equivalent to a mere 0.3% of retail prices.
Santiago explained that shipping charges constitute nearly 50% of logistics costs, making them a far larger factor. He warned that eliminating port fees entirely would jeopardize PPA operations, as these funds cover employee salaries, operational expenses, and project financing.
Airport Fee Reductions and Airline Savings
In parallel, airport terminal fees will be reduced by P200 per passenger, offering direct relief to travelers. Lopez illustrated that a P2,000 ticket could drop to approximately P1,800 as a result. Additionally, airlines will benefit from discounts on take-off and landing fees, with potential savings of up to P5,000 per operation.
These aviation discounts are set to take effect on April 1 and last for three months. Lopez cited the dramatic surge in jet fuel prices—from $89 to $200 per barrel—due to Middle East conflicts as a key driver behind these interventions.
The combined efforts underscore the government's proactive approach to managing transportation costs amid global instability, with a focus on protecting both consumers and key economic sectors.
