Unified logistics pass to start in 9 pilot sites

MANILA, Philippines — The unified logistics pass (ULP) to facilitate unhampered movement of trucks is being rolled out in nine sites for pilot implementation before being available nationwide.

During the launch of the pilot implementation of the ULP, which will replace varying and separate pass-through stickers being required by special economic zones, ports and local government units, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) deputy director general Ernesto Perez said the system using a quick response (QR) code would be implemented first in the Clark Development Corp., Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and Cavite Export Processing Zone this month.

The ULP will also be implemented in the Port of Manila, Manila North Harbor Center, Manila North Harbour Container Port Inc., Manila International Container Terminal, Batangas International Port and Port of Matnog by February.

Perez said the ULP is expected to benefit both private stakeholders and government agencies through the streamlined requirements for a unified QR code to facilitate easier movement of trucks.

He said the ULP would reduce steps in the processes by 73 percent, and time by 87 percent.

Citing computations from the World Bank, he said the ULP system is also expected to lead to P1.92 billion worth of savings.

He said truck companies may apply for the ULP when they apply for a Certificate of Public Convenience with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

Once fully implemented, trucking companies would be able to simultaneously apply for accreditation with port authorities, ecozones, among others through a unified application form with the LTFRB.

Payment of fees for the accreditation or registration with the different entities would be made under a single window or a business one-stop shop.

ARTA director general Jeremiah Belgica said that as 70 percent of the value-added cost of products can be attributed to transportation, the ULP is expected to help reduce product prices.

“The full implementation of the ULP will definitely lower the cost of products as well. At least that is what we are hoping to achieve,” he said.

He said the pilot implementation of the ULP is expected to run until the second quarter.