The Philippine government is exploring short-term logistics relief measures to prevent a surge in the prices of basic goods as global fuel costs ripple through supply chains.
At a joint Senate hearing on Wednesday, March 11, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has recommended the temporary suspension of certain port-related charges to ease the burden on cargo operators and distributors.
The proposal targets government shares embedded in cargo handling and logistics fees collected by major port authorities, including the Philippine Ports Authority, Cebu Ports Authority, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Removing those charges, even temporarily, could lower transport costs for manufacturers and wholesalers moving essential goods across the archipelago.
DTI is also pushing for a temporary moratorium on toll fees for cargo trucks carrying basic commodities along key expressways—another step aimed at preventing rising fuel prices from cascading into retail shelves.
“Logistics costs are a key driver of final prices,” Roque told lawmakers, noting that reducing these expenses could help cushion consumers from inflationary pressure.
Industry consultations suggest that inventories of basic and prime commodities currently remain stable, with supplies estimated to last roughly two months.
Still, officials say proactive steps are necessary to prevent sudden price adjustments if fuel costs continue to climb.
The agency has intensified price monitoring nationwide through its 18 regional offices, which track retail prices daily. Enforcement teams have also been placed on alert to crack down on profiteering.
“We will not hesitate to prosecute violators,” Roque said, emphasizing that both central and regional enforcement units are prepared to act.
The DTI will convene the National Price Coordinating Council on March 13 to assess additional policy options with other government agencies.
While broader fiscal interventions such as suspending fuel excise taxes fall under the Department of Finance, the DTI says its immediate focus is ensuring steady supply and shielding consumers from abrupt price shocks.
