MANILA-The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) will set up a one-stop shop in Matnog Port, Sorsogon to resolve left and right complaints of sports and extortion.
According to a statement by ARTA on Tuesday, it targets to open a one-stop shop in Matnog Port in June.
This follows complaints from truck owners on the frequent congestion of passengers leading to extortion.
Based on the complaints received by ARTA, up to P8,000 is being demanded for hauling trucks to be included in the “priority list” of those who will be the first to board the ship across Allen, Samar.
It turns out, according to ARTA, that the actual fee to be paid by truck haulers at Matnog Port should only be P3,000 but it is superimposed on the fixers and some corrupt port officials.
He also said that there was an opportunity for the fixers to ask passengers for money to buy coffee and snacks.
On Friday, ARTA met with stakeholders at Matnog Port and also contacted the CIDG to resolve the pier problem.
Officials of the two shipping lines operating in Matnog Port are surprised by the “intervention” in their operations by the local government unit’s task force officer.
Story in ARTA of unspecified shipping lines officials, the LGU-created task force seems to be overrunning the Philippine Ports Authority or PPA in Matnog Port.
According to ARTA Undersecretary Carlos Quita, the LGU has no jurisdiction over the operation of the port and it should not prevent the boarding of cargo ships and hauling trucks if they are complete with the document.
First issued Memorandum Circular No. 2021-01 the ARTA which prohibits the unauthorized collection of fees and taxes on the transportation of goods and other products.