Residents and tourists traveling to Bantayan island, Sta. Fe known for its beaches and resorts as it relies heavily on tourism as key economic driver. Cebu asked the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) for the biggest increase on ferry fee.
Through Resolution No. 152 filed by Sta Fe municipal Councilor James Philip Lao asking MARINA to clarify, review, and ensure that the new passenger and vehicle rates comply with existing laws and regulations.
The previous rates were ₱250 and is now at ₱450 per passenger while for vehicle transport fees from the previous ₱2,000 to nearing ₱3,000.
Bantayan island local officials from the municipalities of Bantayan, Sta. Fe and Madridejos emphasized the importance of affordable transport for their towns, noting in the resolution that “accessibility and affordability of transportation play crucial role in sustaining a healthy tourism industry.”
Residents and travelers questioned on whether the increases underwent proper regulatory processes.
Lao warned that the impact of rising costs could extend beyond commuters as it pointed out that higher ferry fares discourage travel to Sta Fe and adversely affect local businesses, with fears that visitors could choose more affordable destinations instead.
While acknowledging that operational costs and fuel prices may fluctuate, the resolution emphasized that any fare hike must remain in the bounds of government regulations.
As MARINA is mandated to oversee domestic shipping rates under existing laws, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro called on MARINA to review such fare hikes.
In a MARINA advisory No. 2026-15, subject on which is Supplement Contingency measures to address impact of the middle east crisis to the Philippine Maritime Industry, it said that “Shipping operators must observe the Required Rate Adjustment (RRA) to be issued by MARINA on a weekly. The RRA shall serve as the minimum allowable limit for any rate adjustments implemented by shipping operators specifically attributed to fuel price fluctuations.”
A maximum of 30% increased based on the RRA as of 27 March 2026 from the base rate (published rate indexed in the certificate of public convenience of the domestic shipping companies and operators as of 28 February 2026 is allowed. The RRA of 30% includes the initial 20% ceiling provided in MARINA advisory No. 2026-10. / (RICO MIRASOL OSMEÑA)
