MARINA Implements 30% Cap on Domestic Shipping Rate Hikes Amid Middle East Crisis

MANILA, Philippines — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has imposed a 30 percent ceiling on domestic shipping rate adjustments, a crucial measure aimed at stabilizing prices amidst the ongoing Middle East crisis and a declared national energy emergency.

Issued through MARINA Advisory No. 2026-15 on March 30, 2026, the directive outlines supplemental contingency measures to address the impact of the Middle East crisis on the Philippine maritime industry. It seeks to ensure price stability amidst rising global fuel costs, following discussions with the Department of Transportation on March 23, 2026, and in accordance with Republic Act No. 9295 (Section 10.12).

New Rate Adjustment Limits Detailed

Under the new advisory, all domestic shipping operators are now subject to a maximum rate increase of 30 percent specifically attributed to fuel price fluctuations. This figure is inclusive of the initial 20 percent ceiling previously established under MARINA Advisory No. 2026-10. The allowable increase is based on the Required Rate Adjustment (RRA) as of March 27, 2026, calculated from the base rate published in the Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) of shipping companies as of February 28, 2026.

MARINA will issue the RRA on a weekly basis, serving as the maximum allowable limit for any fuel-related rate adjustments implemented by shipping operators.

Priority for Essential Goods Maintained

Recognizing the vital role of maritime transport in national supply chains, the advisory explicitly states that the transport of agricultural products and other basic and critical commodities will continue to be prioritized. These essential goods will remain subject to the more stringent 20 percent limit for rate adjustments attributed to fuel price fluctuations, ensuring their accessibility and affordability for consumers.

Transparency and Accountability

To foster transparency, operators are now mandated to adhere to strict notification requirements before implementing any upward rate adjustment. They must inform both MARINA and the general public at least three (3) calendar days before the effectivity date. This notification can be done through:

• Publication in a newspaper of general or regional circulation; or
• Posting in conspicuous areas, including affected ports, vessels, company premises, passenger terminals, ticketing offices, and official company websites or social media accounts.

Crucially, the advisory also introduces mandatory downward adjustments. Should global fuel prices decrease, shipping operators are required to implement a corresponding reduction in their rates. Similar to increases, these downward adjustments must be posted or published and will take effect three (3) calendar days following the notification.

MARINA reiterated its commitment to closely monitor freight and passage rates to ensure full compliance. The agency warned that any failure to adhere to these guidelines or instances of overcharging beyond the set RRA will be met with administrative fines and sanctions. This issuance serves as a supplement to MARINA Advisory No. 2026-10 and took effect immediately upon its issuance.

The measure, signed by Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, aims to safeguard consumers and ensure the stability of the Philippine maritime industry amidst challenging global economic conditions. (Via Sarah Cañon/UM, SunStar Intern)