MEMBERS of the Confederation of Truckers Association of the Philippines (CTAP) said they will increase hauling rates by at least 20% to recover extra cost brought about by soaring oil prices.
On top of the 20% hike, shippers will also have to brace for the impending 250% jump in toll fees at the South Luzon Expressway and another 12% rise in similar fees at the North Luzon Expressway.
The CTAP Board will convene this Wednesday (Dec 8) to ratify the proposed rate increase and billing system for the toll fee hikes.
"Trucking costs have really soared lately; we have no choice but to pass on the cost," CTAP president Rupert Bayocot told PortCalls. The pump price of diesel is now at about P37 per liter and will likely rise further with huge demand for heating in the northern hemisphere. In addition, he said the price of truck tires and spare parts have jumped significantly, resulting in even higher overheads.
Still, Bayocot said CTAP members continue to hold up hope that the government can find a way to cut fuel prices and stagger — if not altogether defer — imposition of the toll fee hikes.
