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The Philippine Ports Authority reiterates strict implementation of the “first come, first serve” policy on vessel berthing
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This is to maximize the efficient use of the ports’ berth or docking facility ‘in a systematic, non-discriminatory and timely manner’
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In cases when exception to the rule is necessary, the prescribed berthing priority under AO 04-83 and other relevant issuances should be observed
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) reiterates the strict implementation of the “first come, first serve” policy on vessel berthing to maximize the efficient use of the ports’ berth or docking facility “in a systematic, non-discriminatory and timely manner.”
This policy is pursuant to PPA Administrative Order (AO) No. 04-83, which provides guidelines in the issuance of berthing permit and related berthing instructions to vessels engaged in coastwise trade, according to PPA Operations Memorandum Circular (OMC) No. 002 series of 2025 by PPA assistant general manager for operations Mark Jon Palomar dated June 2.
As a general rule under AO 04-83, the first come, first serve basis (based on estimated time of arrival of vessels) under AO 13-77 (general port regulations of PPA) should be followed.
In cases when exception to the rule is necessary, the following prescribed berthing priority under AO 04-83 and other relevant issuances should be observed:
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Vessel in distress or emergency when life or property is endangered.
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A vessel berthing solely for the purpose of bunkering, loading fresh water, victualling also have the same priority as vessel in distress.
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Vessel of the Philippine government on official business
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Passenger vessel with at least 10 passengers to embark
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Vessel carrying perishable goods or livestock
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Other vessel when public interest so requires or when equitable consideration has to be taken into account in the case of shipping company that has established port facilities under a lease grant of a portion of the government pier, without prejudice to the PPA policy on common use
The allocation of a berth belonging to, or operated by PPA shall be at the authority’s discretion pursuant to AO 13-77. Some cargo-handling/terminal operators, particularly those with concession agreements with PPA, were given the authority to approve berth applications and issue berth assignments.
