12 ferry routes designated for subsidized fares

THE Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) said its P200-million service contracting program will be offered on 12 ferry routes, where passengers will enjoy fare subsidies to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs.

“A total of 33 operators will participate in our program. We have already identified the routes and based on our estimate, our program will run for about two weeks but we may extend it further,” MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan said in a statement on Monday.

The Department of Transportation is further expanding its service contracting program to include ferries, providing fare subsidies while ensuring continued income for transport workers.

The fare subsidy involves economy-class trips. MARINA’s service contracting program started on Monday and is expected to serve 1.16 million passengers. 

According to MARINA these routes are: Batangas City to Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro; Batangas City to Calapan, Oriental, Mindoro; Jordan Wharf, Guimaras to Parola Wharf, Iloilo City; Buenavista Guimaras to Iloilo City; Olango Island to Angasil, Lapu-Lapu City; Liloan, Santander, Cebu to Sibulan, Negros Oriental; Zamboanga City to Basilan; Talicud Island to Poblacion Kaputian, Samal Island; Surigao City, Surigao del Norte to San Jose, Dinagat Islands; Socorro, Surigao del Norte to Hayanggabon, Surigao del Norte; and Socorro, Surigao del Norte to Dapa, Surigao del Norte. 

Participating operators are Montenegro Shipping Lines, Inc.; Shogun Ships Co., Inc.; Phil-Wave Boat Builders Co. Ltd.; Supercat Fast Ferries; Bamosa Marine Transport Corp.; 3S Marine Transport Corp.; Guimaras Island Transport, Buenavista and Jordan Ferry, Inc.; Cuadro Alas Navigation, Inc.; and Sta. Rosa Ferry Services.

Ms. Malaluan said the fare subsidy varies depending on vessel capacity and corresponding fare increases. — Ashley Erika O. Jose