INHTA Announces New Officers for 2026-2027 and Sets Focus on Key Trucking Challenges

INHTA’s New Leadership Takes the Helm as It Celebrates 30 Years

The Inland Haulers & Truckers Association (INHTA) recently inducted its new officers and Board of Trustees (BOT) for the 2026-2027 term during a ceremony on December 9, 2025. This event not only marked the changing of the guard but also coincided with INHTA’s 30th anniversary, highlighting three decades of advocacy for professional truckers in the Philippines.

The induction ceremony was a significant gathering, presided over by Manila City Mayor Francisco Domagoso, who served as the inducting officer. Leading the association once again is Teodorico Gervacio, continuing in his capacity as chairman and president. The newly inducted officers bring a wealth of experience and dedication to furthering the interests of the trucking community.

Meet the 2026-2027 INHTA Officers and Board of Trustees

Priority Challenges and Advocacy on the Horizon

During the induction, the association’s continued priorities were clearly outlined by its chairman. A major item on INHTA’s agenda is advocating for the amendment of certain laws and regulations that significantly impact truckers’ livelihoods and safety on the road.

Rethinking the Traffic Demerit System

INHTA targets the revision of the Traffic Demerit System under the Land Transportation and Traffic Code (Republic Act No. 10930). Currently, the implementing rules assign double demerit points to drivers of for-hire trucks for traffic violations. This policy notably affects public utility vehicles, including trucks-for-hire, placing a disproportionate burden on drivers even for minor or administrative infractions.

The association argues that such “double demerits” should be limited to serious moving violations—think reckless driving—that have direct safety consequences. Minor infractions linked to vehicle equipment or paperwork should not carry the same weight, as this penalizes drivers for issues beyond their control.

Decoupling Overloading Violations from Driver Penalties

One of the stand-out proposals involves separating violations related to overloading and dimensional limits from the driver’s demerit record. INHTA emphasizes that drivers should not shoulder the blame or risk license suspensions for overloading decisions, which are usually determined by operators or shippers responsible for cargo management.

Addressing Truck Driver Shortage with an Innovative Training Model

Another pressing concern is a critical shortage of qualified truck drivers, creating safety challenges and logistical slowdowns within the industry. In response, INHTA advocates for a shift from generic driving schools to a company-led, competency-based framework anchored by a new licensing system.
This involves introducing a Provisional Commercial Apprenticeship License (PCAL), allowing experienced helpers or “pahinantes” to legally train on commercial trucks through a structured 12-week dual apprenticeship program. This includes 70% on-the-job training under the watchful eye of certified mentors, combined with 30% theory.

Skill validation would use real-time telematics monitoring rather than standard static exams, ensuring a rigorous and relevant evaluation. The PCAL license could then convert directly to a professional truck driver’s license, nurturing a safe and certified pipeline of truck operators while formalizing an often informal workforce.

Calling for Updates to the Anti-Overloading Law’s Regulations

INHTA also pushes for modernization of the regulations implementing the Anti-Overloading Law (Republic Act 8794). Given the proliferation of new truck types and evolving operational realities in the Philippines, the current rules and weight computation methods need revision to better reflect actual vehicle dimensions and capacities.

Implicazioni per le operazioni di logistica e trasporto

These proposals aren’t just about rules and licenses—they go straight to the heart of logistics efficiency and reliability. Rationalizing the traffic demerit system could prevent unjust license suspensions, keeping professional drivers on the road and minimizing disruptions in cargo delivery schedules.

Moreover, formalizing training through apprenticeships and upgrading licensing protocols helps address driver shortages, which is a significant bottleneck in freight transport. A better-trained workforce means safer roads and less downtime, which translates to smoother freight haulage and better supply chain integrity.

Revising overloading regulations to reflect current vehicle types ensures compliance standards are practical and equitable, which helps prevent delays caused by fines or impounded vehicles—a win for both shippers and transporters.

Key Focus Areas at a Glance

• Traffic Demerit System: Amend double demerit rules for fairness and safety.
• Driver Penalties for Overloading: Remove overloading violations from driver records.
• Driver Shortage: Introduce PCAL apprenticeship licensing to build skills and legitimize helpers.
• Anti-Overloading Law: Update implementation rules to fit modern truck specifications.

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Guardando al futuro: cosa significa per la logistica globale

Though primarily focused on the Philippine logistics scene, the issues tackled by INHTA resonate well beyond borders. Efficient, fair traffic enforcement and robust driver training are universal pillars for a healthy freight industry, especially as global supply chains face increasing pressure to stay agile and safe.

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Conclusione

The Inland Haulers & Truckers Association marks its 30th year by stepping up with renewed leadership and a clear agenda centered on pragmatic regulatory reforms. By advocating for a balanced traffic demerit system, recognizing the distinct roles in overloading infractions, addressing the driver shortage through innovative apprenticeships, and calling for updated overloading rules, INHTA is steering the future of Philippine trucking toward greater efficiency and fairness.

These efforts bear significant relevance to the global logistics landscape, where reliable transport, skilled operators, and regulatory clarity are key to smooth cargo movement. Platforms like GetTransport.com complement these advances by delivering accessible, cost-effective freight and moving services globally, streamlining logistics with a user-friendly approach.

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