CALSEDECO is presently the operator of Cargo Handling Services at the Port of Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro having been authorized as service provider by and has a permit to operate and management contract with the Philippine Ports Authority since 1975. The creation and organization of cooperative in the ports is a serious attempt to socialize the port services for the benefit of the ultimate us
ers of the port as well as labor with the end in view of creating most employment opportunities and equal distribution of wealth. Only the influential, the powerful and the rich emerge in the lucrative cargo handling contract in the waterfront. This is very evident in the country’s major ports like the Port of Manila. We have long seen a highly capitalistic port community with existence of monopoly and absolute control of businesses and activities that only tend to bring the gap between the rich and the poor. The concept of socializing the port services in the waterfront thru Cooperatives will aim to enhance and maximize port efficiency, benefit cargo owners, traders and shippers and other port users, alleviate the deteriorating living conditions and ensure fair and equitable distribution of income and wealth. The PPA will find it easier to manage a port community that is characterized by cooperation, mutual support, understanding and unity in the attainment of various economic goals. In Cooperatives, there is no room for imbalance in the port industry, no service discrimination and port users are given complete freedom of choice.
