Truckers appeal to speed up cargo release in ports

Haulers and truckers groups have asked concerned agencies to address the piling cargoes in Metro Manila’s ports, saying this could delay the delivery of various items, including balikbayan boxes being awaited by families this Christmas.

According to Mariz Umali’s report on “24 Oras,” five ships are currently unloading at the Manila International Port, while 17 more are on the line to unload.

At the South Harbor, 3 ships are unloading, while six more are waiting for their turn and two more ships are expected to dock.

“Iyong mga kargamento na continuously dumadating dito sa ating bansa, halo-halo ‘yan – raw materials, balikbayan boxes, finished products, at ‘yun ang maiipit,” Teddy Gervacio, chairman and president of the Inland Haulers and Truckers Association, said.

“Ang isang worry namin, may mga barko na dyan sa Manila Bay waiting for their turn makapag-berth,” he added.

Mary Zapata, president of the Confederation of Truckers Association, said the waiting period of in the ports costs truckers more.

“Hindi lang yung sa iisipin namin kung aabot.  But definitely, may gastos silang ise-share sa bawat delay ng release ng kargamento sa port.

Bureau of Customs spokesperson Arnaldo dela Torre said measures are in place to speed up the releases of cargo.

“We have parang express lane na pinoprovide to facilitate, expedite the clearance ng mga balikbayan boxes,” he said.

“Ang mangyayari, wala nang physical examination.  Yung sinasabi na binubuksan ‘yung boxes, unless merong makita o ma-detect dun sa containers na kahina-hinala or in commercial quantity,” he added.

GMA News has reached to port officials for their side.

Meanwhile, in a street in Hong Kong, several overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are busy packing their boxes to be sent to the Philippines to their loved ones.

Robelyn Alberto said her box has chocolates, oatmeal, coffee and soap, among others.

Ruth Alberto said the package she will be sending is for her mother.

Both OFWs hope that despite the situation in Manila’s ports, their packages would reach their families in time for Christmas.—LDF, GMA Integrated News