New ferry service

CEBU, Philippines — Daily commuters traveling between Mandaue City and Lapu-Lapu City are expected to benefit from lower transport costs and reduced road congestion with the introduction of the seabus, a new passenger ferry service set to begin operations in April.

The seabus service offers an alternative route for workers and residents crossing between the two cities, particularly those commuting to and from Mactan, at a time when fuel prices and transport fares remain high.

City officials said the initiative is expected to help ease traffic volume along major roads while providing a more efficient and affordable travel option for the public.

The ferry service, operated by Carlos A. Gothong Lines, Inc., will begin operations after Holy Week. Company president Calvin Boniface Gothong said the service supports efforts to improve connectivity and public transportation between the two cities.

“Ang expected nato sa atong operation after Holy Week, to support the city’s initiatives on connectivity and public transport. We’re helping Mandaue City to lower expenses for our Mandauehanons, para lang nga maka-travel sila to Mactan,” Gothong told the city government.

Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano welcomed the service, noting its potential to ease transportation expenses. He also appealed for a reduced fare of ?20 from the initially proposed ?35 to help lessen the burden on commuters.

The mayor added that the ferry provides an alternative route that could help decongest traffic in both Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu cities while improving travel efficiency for workers.

”Haom sad gyud kaayo ‘ni karon tungod kay taas naman gyud kaayo ang atong pletehan, atong gasolina, atong krudo. Haom gyud kaayo. We gave an alternative solution to decongest traffic here in the city of Mandaue as well as Lapu-Lapu,” said Ouano in their official post.

The launch of the ferry service, held on March 18 and attended by Mayor Ouano and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" Chan, along with company officials, marked the formal introduction of the service.

The GT Express Uno will operate at least three morning trips from Mandaue City to Lapu-Lapu City and three evening return trips to accommodate daily commuters.

Free shuttle bus services will be provided at designated pick-up points in Parkmall, Mandaue City Hall, and Pacific Mall.

Passengers will be transported to the GT Ferry Wharf in Barangay Subangdaku, North Reclamation Area, where the Seabus is docked. The ferry will arrive at the Muelle Osmeña Lighthouse in Lapu-Lapu City.

Mayor Chan expressed support for initiatives that enhance commuter mobility and strengthen inter-city connectivity. /RAE