Manapla Port Roll-On Roll-Off Ferry Launches June 28
BACOLOD CITY – The Manapla Port Stevedoring and Arrastre in Barangay Punta Salong, Negros Occidental, will begin operations on June 28, four months after the formal opening of its P180-million port on February 2. This marks the official start of the roll-on, roll-off ferry service connecting Manapla Port to Ajuy Port in Iloilo.
This new route will serve as the final link of the nautical highway connecting Negros Occidental and Panay Island, offering passengers and cargo a faster and more efficient mode of transport. According to local sources familiar with the matter, the Ro-Ro ferry service, operated by Lite Ferries Shipping Co., will cut travel time to just 1.5 hours between the two ports.
Fastest Maritime Link to Panay Island
The Manapla Port roll-on roll-off ferry is the quickest and most direct maritime connection between Manapla and Panay, designed to improve transit efficiency for both commuters and freight. Daily ferry schedules are set for departures from Manapla to Ajuy at 7 a.m., 1 p.m., 7 p.m., and 1 a.m. Meanwhile, the return trips from Ajuy to Manapla will be at 4 a.m., 10 a.m., 4 p.m., and 10 p.m.
Plans are underway to introduce a second route to Concepcion Port in Panay, which is expected to take approximately 55 minutes. Community leaders said this expansion will further enhance regional connectivity.
Facilities and Economic Impact
The port will also offer amenities such as a canteen, sanitary facilities, and lodging accommodations specifically for truck drivers. These services will be managed by local women’s cooperatives in cooperation with the Manapla municipal government.
Sources indicate that the newly operational port is positioned as a strategic economic gateway linking Negros Occidental and Iloilo. The project is expected to create new livelihood opportunities, stimulate local tourism, and contribute positively to the regional economy.
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