The Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PhilExport) asked Congress to prioritize the passage of the Philippine Ports Authority Reform Act as part of its legislative agenda to improve trade logistics and reduce the high shipping costs burdening exporters and importers alike.
Under the proposed measure, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) will be transformed into the Philippine Ports Corporation (PHILPORTS), a purely commercial and developmental body tasked with operating and modernizing public ports across the country.
Its current regulatory functions will be transferred to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), addressing long-standing concerns over PPA’s dual role as both regulator and revenue-generating port operator.
PhilExport said this structural reform is necessary to eliminate conflicts of interest and bring about a more transparent, competitive, and business-friendly port environment.
“Right now, the PPA collects a share from every fee charged at the ports, including those it regulates. This setup not only discourages efficiency but also drives up the cost of doing business,” the group said.
PhilExport said it has long advocated for he reform that seeks to institutionalize the separation of port regulation from development functions as a key step in cutting excessive and unregulated port charges.
Exporters said Philippine shipping and logistics costs remain among the highest in Southeast Asia, partly due to unchecked port fees and a lack of accountability in port operations.
The group said creating a dedicated port corporation, similar to models in other ASEAN countries, would allow for more responsive infrastructure development while ensuring regulatory oversight through MARINA.
The group said reforming the country’s port governance framework is crucial to boosting the competitiveness of local industries, especially small and medium-sized exporters who bear the brunt of inefficient and costly logistics systems.
PhilExport said it has beenactively pushing for the proposed legislation with lawmakers and stakeholders, calling it a “long-overdue measure” to support the country’s integration to improve its ease of doing business.
