Further to PPA AO 07-96, specifying procedures in granting rate increases in view of economic disturbances experienced in 1996, specifically those caused by wage increases, the following additional requirements are hereby issued for compliance by all concerned:

1. Rate increases, although allowed to be negotiated between the cargo handlers and the direct port users, shall be presented in a public hearing/dialogue. Representatives from the local Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Trade and Industry shall also be invited. Formal minutes of the hearing shall be submitted, to support the agreement.

2. In order to check the fairness of rate adjustments cargo handling operators should submit certified copies of their latest Income Tax Returns and latest financial statements in accordance with the Uniform Chart of Accounts prescribed by the Authority; and

3. The Port Manager concerned shall ensure that these requirements are complied with prior to submission of the documents and recommendation for approval by top management.

For your dissemination to all cargo handling operators and others concerned.

Adopted: 12 Aug. 1996

(SGD.) CARLOS L. AGUSTIN
General Manager