Law Summary

Purpose of the Circular

• Explanation: The memorandum aims to clarify the treatment and imposition of applicable fees on self-driven heavy equipment transported via Roll-On/Roll-Off (RO-RO) or non-RO-RO vessels to prevent disagreements and resolve conflicts.
• Key Intent: To ensure consistent application of fees and promote efficient transportation methods.

Definition of the Roll-On/Roll-Off Transport System (RRTS)

• Explanation: The RRTS is designed to provide a safe and efficient transportation mode for bridging islands, reducing inter-island transportation costs, enhancing tourism and trade, and facilitating the food supply chain.
• Key Characteristics:
  • Considered the most affordable and efficient means of transporting people and products.

Classification of Vehicles and Applicable Fees

• Explanation: The memorandum references PPA Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 17-2003, which categorizes vehicles as self-driven or self-propelled, specifically for RO-RO transport.
• Vehicle Types and Fees:
  • Motorcycle, Tricycle, Scooter: Php 65.00
  • Car, Minivan, SUV, AUV, Owner, Jeep, PUJ (<=16 pax): Php 129.00
  • Light Delivery Truck, Van, Pickup Truck, PUJ (>16 pax): Php 258.00
  • Stake Truck, Heavy Delivery Truck, Passenger/Tourist Bus, Prime Mover, Tractor Head (with/without trailer): Php 516.00

Definition of Pure RO-RO Vehicles

• Explanation: Pure RO-RO vehicles are defined as self-driven vehicles that can enter or exit the RO-RO vessel under their own power without being rehandled at the pier or grounding on board.
• Key Elements:
  • Vehicles must transport cargo and/or people.

Clarification on Self-Driven Heavy Equipment

• Explanation: Heavy equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, graders, and backhoes, although self-propelled, do not qualify as RO-RO vehicles as they are not used for general transport of cargoes or people.
• Important Requirement:
  • Self-driven heavy equipment shall be charged regular cargo handling rates rather than RO-RO fees.

Compliance and Adoption

• Explanation: Compliance with the provisions outlined in this memorandum is mandatory.
• Adoption Date: This memorandum was adopted on April 25, 2011.

Key Takeaways

• The memorandum clarifies the treatment of self-driven heavy equipment, specifying that they are not classified as RO-RO vehicles and thus subject to regular cargo handling fees.
• It outlines the definitions and classifications of vehicles eligible for RO-RO transport and their corresponding fees.
• Compliance with the circular is required, ensuring clarity in the imposition of transportation fees.