Cebu to roll out maritime, aviation relief measures amid rising fuel costs
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu authorities are introducing a series of relief measures for the shipping and airline industries as soaring fuel prices continue to put pressure on transport operators and increase travel and cargo expenses.
The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) has begun implementing substantial discounts and temporary fee waivers for maritime operators, while the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) is preparing a similar assistance package for airlines.
In a statement, the CPA said a two-month cost relief program will take effect on April 18, 2026, under Memorandum Circular No. 4, series of 2026, after securing approval from the Cebu Port Commission on March 26.
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Under the program, domestic vessels will receive a 40 percent reduction in berthing charges, while anchorage fees within areas covered by the port authority will also be cut by 40 percent.
The package likewise includes the temporary suspension of passenger terminal fees in all CPA-managed ports, the waiver of RoRo wharfage charges for cargo trucks carrying agricultural products, and the removal of selected permit and harbor-related fees.
Officials said the measures are intended to help shipping firms cope with mounting fuel expenses, which have already led to higher fares for passengers and increased cargo rates.
Airport relief package under review
Meanwhile, the aviation sector may soon receive similar assistance.
The MCIAA is planning to grant airlines a three-month deferment on airport-related charges, including fees for landing, takeoff, and aircraft parking.
The proposed relief aims to help carriers manage rising jet fuel costs and sustain both domestic and regional routes operating through Cebu, according to an official from the MCIAA.
In the meantime, the proposal is still awaiting approval from the airport authority’s board, with rollout targeted by May.
MARINA backs relief efforts
The CPA’s initiative is being complemented by support from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), which is also proposing regulatory relief for the maritime sector.
Based on a presentation by MARINA-Central Visayas representative Jose Cabatingan III, the proposed measures include the temporary suspension of certain agency fees, discounted rates for selected regulatory charges, and a lower Annual Tonnage Fee (ATF).
MARINA is also pushing for the implementation of a Service Contracting Program, modeled after government subsidy programs for public transportation, to help stabilize domestic shipping operations during the fuel crisis.
Authorities have warned that continued fuel price hikes could eventually affect supply chains, push commodity prices higher, and erode Cebu’s competitiveness in trade and logistics.
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