FORWARDERS ARE ESSENTIAL 

How often are  freight forwarders perceived as mere agents, and go-in-betweens? This is far from the true picture. 

Our President Mme Doris Torres, in recent speeches  in Cebu and Davao at the  “Port Calls Visayas and Mindanao Shipping Conference 2023” has elaborated on the importance, even how vital the Logistics Industry is. 

Freight Forwarders were among the  first ones to be given status of  “essential business”  and permit to operate by the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) at the onset of COVID lockdowns. 

She emphasized: “Freight forwarders provide essential services in organizing transportation of goods  they are key players in bringing merchandise to where  needed. As an organizer of transportation, shipping and handling, they make careful study, conceptualize a strategy and execute cost-effective, efficient, safe and timely deliveries”

Recognizing this role, in 2018 just before the COVID-19 outbreak, the DTI through its Supply Chain and Logistics Management Division signed with various associations in the Supply Chain and Logistics together with the Department of Transportation 10 commitments. The Philippine Multimodal Transport and Logistics Association – the association of freight forwarders is one of the signatory to these commitments.

Commitment No. 4 says::

“We recognize the role that the logistics services sector plays in ensuring ease of doing business. We shall abide by the provisions of the Republic Act 11030, also known as the Ease of Doing Business Act. Government agencies shall adhere to the standard processing times for issuance of permits and licenses. The private sector, on the other hand, shall strictly comply will full requirements, above board, and also monitor compliance among government agencies”

True to its commitment, the SCLMD launched a project called Logistics Services Philippines – Project Strealiming, having the objective of promoting ease of doing business.

Logistics are a  highly regulated industry and therefore always an advantage for exporters and importers to engage with a trusted freight forwarder. For more insight and solutions contact stamm@stamm.com.ph