Early morning sea travel between Siquijor and Dumaguete will face temporary disruption after OceanJet cancelled select trips from April 24 to May 15, citing a fuel contingency measure linked to supply constraints.
In an advisory Thursday, the fast craft operator said the affected schedules include the 5:00 a.m. Siquijor to Dumaguete trip and the 6:20 a.m. Dumaguete to Siquijor return trip.
“For affected passengers you are entitled for full refund and no charge rescheduling,” OceanJet said, advising travelers to process refunds or rebooking through ticketing offices.
The adjustment comes amid wider reports of reduced inter-island operations as shipping firms respond to rising fuel costs and tightening supply conditions.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez earlier said fewer inter-province vessels have been sailing nationwide as operators cut back trips.
“Even before the global crisis of petroleum supply, we were already facing shortages of our passenger ferries. Now, we are projecting a bigger shortage,” Lopez said.
Based on data submitted to the Department of Transportation, Lopez said passenger ferry operations have dropped by around 10 percent.
“For cost efficiency and savings, some shipping lines have reduced or suspended some of their trips,” he added.
To manage disruptions, the Philippine Coast Guard has been directed to deploy vessels and personnel in key ports to assist passengers who may be stranded.
The Maritime Industry Authority has also issued contingency guidelines allowing operators to adjust schedules, consolidate trips, and cancel selected sailings with approval.
The policy also allows fuel surcharges of up to 20 percent of base fares during the period, while prioritizing transport of essential goods such as fuel and food.
The suspension of early morning OceanJet trips is expected to affect commuters, workers, and tourists who rely on first sailings for inter-island travel between Siquijor and Negros Oriental.
Authorities said measures remain in place to maintain connectivity as the fuel situation continues to develop. (LLP)
Image courtesy of PHBus
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