- CHERYL G. CRUZ
Both the municipal governments of EB Magalona in Negros Occidental and Ajuy in Iloilo Province expect developments in trade and commerce, and tourism, with a shorter sailing time between northern Panay and Negros via a new Roll On, Roll Off route that opened today.
Francis Frederic Cruz, chairman and president of the F.F. Cruz Shipping Corporation that will operate the route via MV Felipe 1, said the travel time between the Manta-angan Port in EB Magalona and Bay-ang Port in Ajuy is only more than one hour.
He thanked those who attended the opening of the company’s port facility in EB Magalona this morning, adding that the project took several years to complete, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic.
EB Magalona Mayor Marvin Malacon, through a representative, lauded the company for this project and later said that lots of opportunities are expected to come in with the start of port operations in Manta-angan.
Ajuy Mayor Jett Rojas, who attended the launching in EB Magalona, said the new route will bring beneficial improvements, particularly efficiency and affordability of inter-island travel in Western Visayas.
It will significantly lessen the travel time for cargo trucks delivering goods and services, promote local tourism, and improve mobility, which will translate into inclusive economic growth, he added.
“We invite our neighbors in the Negros Island to come and visit Northern Iloilo. Aside from our rich agricultural lands and seawaters, Ajuy and the rest of the municipalities in Northern Iloilo boast of pristine and uncrowded beaches, islands, mangrove parks, marine sanctuaries, hiking trails with spectacular views, delicious and fresh food, and the friendliest people,” Rojas said in a statement, adding that “with travel restrictions slowly easing, Northern Iloilo is the perfect destination for you to explore and beat the summer heat.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the port facility was also attended by other company officers, 3rd District Board Member Manuel Frederick Ko on behalf of Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Negros Occidental Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office head Edgardo Rostata, and CENRO Joan Gerangaya, among others.
The company said they will announce soon the schedule of trips and the fare rates. | CGC
