Shipping firms raise sea fares amid Middle East tensions

Some shipping companies have increased fares for sea travel as ongoing tensions in the Middle East affect global crude oil supply.

According to Darlene Cay’s report on “24 Oras Weekend” on Sunday, some shipping firms have also canceled certain trips to reduce fuel consumption.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), however, said ship operators may raise fares by up to 20% only during a crisis and must notify the public in advance.

“They need to inform MARINA and the public. Publication is required. If a ship’s trading route is inter-regional, the new rates must be posted in all affected regions. There is a two-week publication requirement for any rate adjustments,” MARINA spokesperson Luisito delos Santos said in Filipino.

MARINA added that shipping companies must also immediately inform the public once fare prices are reduced.

For instance, a shipping company will implement a fare hike on the Batangas–Calapan route starting March 23. The regular fare of ₱525 will increase to between ₱600 and ₱723.

Some passengers at Batangas Port expressed dismay over the fare increase.

“It’s too expensive, but I don’t have a choice,” one passenger said.

Jeepney drivers worried

Jeepney drivers are also worried about the rising prices of petroleum products.

Driver Jesus Ferrer said he has already lost up to ₱500 from his daily earnings and is concerned about how further fuel price hikes could affect his income.

“I would have to stop my trips because I wouldn’t earn anything then. I might try other work if that happens,” he said.

Transport group Manibela is expected to hold a protest soon over the rising fuel prices and said it is time to implement the provisional ₱1 fare increase to help cushion the impact on drivers.

Some commuters, however, said they are willing to accept higher fares if it would help public transport drivers.

“It’s okay because our drivers will actually lose money if they don’t raise the fares,” one commuter said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Energy said it is coordinating with fuel companies for discount programs for drivers of public utility vehicles (PUVs), transport network vehicle services (TNVS), and delivery services—Vince Angelo Ferreras/MCG, GMA Integrated News