The Anti Red-Tape Authority spearheaded the Ceremonial Signing of the Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) on the Implementation of Measures to Address the Congestion in and Around the Vicinity of the Port of Matnog on May 16, 2024 at People’s Mansion, Sorsogon City, Sorsogon.

This significant initiative is the result of the series of high-level consultation meetings of different stakeholders to resolve the crucial issues and concerns pertaining to online ticketing or reservation and agency timeline commitment. The review and redrafting of the JMC is to ensure that the JMC’s provisions promote integrity, accountability, and proper management of public affairs and public property, as well as to establish effective practices towards ease of doing business.

SILG Atty. Benjamin Abalos, Jr., was represented by DILG R5 Regional Director Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober Jr., CESO V who gave the closing message.

In his message, he highlighted the importance of the JMC in enhancing the competitiveness of the Port of Matnog and ensuring a seamless flow of goods and services. Furthermore, he emphasized the economic and tourism benefits that efficient port operations could bring to the region, as well as to Visayas and Mindanao.

In attendance were ARTA Director General Secretary Ernesto V. Perez, MARINA Regional Director Atty. Maximo Bañares, Jr., DOTR Regional Engineer Noel Lozada, Sorsogon PPO Provincial Director Dionesio Laceda and Representatives from Provincial Government of Sorsogon.