Workers load boxes of goods from a truck at a Department of Social Welfare and Development warehouse in Pasay City. —FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand ” Bongbong” Marcos Jr. suspended toll collections among local government units (LGU) for any vehicles that are transporting any goods, according to a newly issued Executive Order (EO).
In an EO published in the Official Gazette late Thursday night, Marcos cited the need to reduce logistical and transportation costs to revitalize local industries.
“All LGUS are prohibited from collecting toll [other] fees and charges upon all motor vehicles transporting goods or merchandise while passing through any national roads and such other roads not constructed and funded by LGUS pursuant to Section 155 of RA (Republic Act) No. 7160,” said the EO.
In addition, LGUs are urged to suspend the fees entirely.
“In the interest of public welfare, all LGUS are further strongly urged to suspend or discontinue the collection of fees, such as but not limited to, sticker fees, discharging fees, delivery fees, market fees, toll fees, entry fees, or Mayor’s Permit fees, that are imposed upon all motor vehicles transporting goods and passing through any local public roads constructed and funded by said LGUS,” the Order read.
LGUs are also urged to re-examine their fees within 30 days of the effectiveness of the order.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed the order on September 25 in Manila.