Gov. Gwen Garcia reminded the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) of its crucial role as a “regulatory authority” in ensuring passenger fare rates are “fair and reasonable” particularly for third-class passengers.
In a meeting with marine transport stakeholders and government officials, the governor called out Marina to not be remiss in its mandate underscoring that it needs to conduct public consultations before imposing “expensive” fare rates.
To recall, Gov. Gwen called for a meeting in April to discuss the reported “overpriced fare rates” for sea travel between mainland Cebu via Hagnaya Port in San Remigio town and Santa Fe Port in Bantayan Island.
The mayors, led by Santa Fe Mayor Ithamar Espinosa, Madridejos Mayor Romeo Villaceran, Vice Mayor Vincent Villacrucis asked shipping companies to “reassess” these rates.
During Monday’s meeting it was established that MARINA needs to intervene and ensure that fare rates are fair and reasonable.
Marina-7 regional director Annabelle Llagas expressed her commitment to organizing a public hearing to involve all stakeholders, including shipping operators and LGU officials from Bantayan Island.
Gov. Garcia urged Marina 7 to ensure a comprehensive stakeholder participation in the upcoming public hearing. This hearing will provide a platform for all voices to be heard and aim for a resolution that balances the interests of shipping companies and the public.
The goal is to ensure that public interest is upheld and fare rates remain accessible for all passengers, especially that Bantayan Island remains a top tourism drawer for Cebu for its white sand beaches, authentic island life experience, and rich marine harvest.
Currently, Island Shipping and Super Shuttle operator Asian Marine Transport Corp. are the primary companies operating the Hagnaya-Santa Fe route, with fare rates ranging from P300 to P359 for a one-way ticket.
The planned public hearing is expected to foster dialogue and transparency, helping to establish fare rates that are justifiable and aligned with legal standards. | CSL