Cebu Port Authority implements discounts, fee suspension to mitigate fuel crisis impact

Cebu City, Philippines – The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) has unveiled a comprehensive set of responsive measures aimed at cushioning the blow of the ongoing oil crisis on Cebu’s vital maritime sector. Approved on March 26, 2026, and set to take effect on April 18, 2026, these interventions include discounts and a temporary suspension of various port charges for a period of two months.

The persistent escalation of fuel prices has significantly driven up operating costs for shipping lines, leading to a ripple effect of increased passenger fares and cargo charges. This surge has made travel less affordable for the public and burdened businesses with higher logistics expenses. Experts warn that a prolonged crisis could disrupt supply chains, inflate commodity prices, and ultimately diminish Cebu’s trade efficiency.

In a decisive move to counteract these challenges, the Cebu Port Commission, during its meeting on March 26, 2026, formally approved CPA Memorandum Circular No. 4 series of 2026. This directive authorizes the implementation of critical discounts and the suspension of specific port charges, effective for two months after its publication, commencing April 18, 2026.

Key Measures Implemented by CPA:

• 40% discount on Berthing Fees for domestic vessels calling at Cebu ports.
• 40% discount on Anchorage Fees for domestic vessels operating within CPA jurisdiction.
• Suspension of RoRo Wharfage Fees specifically for cargo vehicles transporting purely agricultural products, including:
  • 6-wheelers (4,800–7,500 kg)
  • 6-wheelers, prime movers without trailer (7,600–15,000 kg)
  • 8-wheelers, tank lorries, and 10-wheel straight trucks (20,000–25,000 kg)
  • 10-wheel prime movers with trailers (26,000 kg and above)
• Suspension of Passenger Terminal Fees across all CPA-operated terminals.
• Suspension of fees for Single Entry Pass, Watering Permit, Bunkering Permit, and other Harbor Control Center (HCC)-approved permits.

These measures strategically position the CPA to absorb a portion of the operational costs associated with port services. This ensures the continuous and uninterrupted delivery of essential services such as infrastructure maintenance, utilities, sanitation, security, and emergency response. Furthermore, the suspension of passenger terminal fees will enable CPA to subsidize the ongoing operations of passenger terminal buildings, encompassing critical services like shuttle transport, comfort room maintenance, security, cleaning and sanitation, lighting and air-conditioning, electrical and utility services, water supply, emergency and medical services, pest control, and administrative and operational staffing.

CPA General Manager Francisco C. Comendador III acknowledged the significant impact these initiatives would have on CPA’s internal operations. However, he underscored the imperative to support port stakeholders during this particularly challenging economic period. “Our priority is to ease the burden on our stakeholders and the riding public,” GM Comendador stated, emphasizing the authority’s commitment to public welfare.

“We will implement this measure for a period of two (2) months as we remain hopeful that the situation will stabilize soon and allow us to shift our focus to recovery efforts. However, this may be extended if necessary,” he added, indicating flexibility in response to evolving circumstances.

Complementary Austerity Measures:

To bolster these interventions and ensure sustainability, CPA has simultaneously implemented a series of energy-saving and austerity measures:

• Adoption of a 4-day work week for non-frontline personnel.
• Increased use of solar lighting in port facilities.
• Strict implementation of resource conservation measures across all operations.
• Limited use of service vehicles, prioritizing urgent and critical operations only.
• Maximization of virtual meetings and digital platforms to reduce travel and associated costs.
• Cancellation of non-essential official travel.

The Cebu Port Authority reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ensuring the continuous and efficient delivery of port services, steadfastly supporting both the maritime industry and the commuting public amidst the ongoing fuel crisis.