Negros-Iloilo sea travel suspended

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — Sea travel between the islands of Negros and Panay is suspended starting today until May 31 following the reversion of Iloilo City to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) due to rising COVID cases.

The suspension was in compliance with an order of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, placing the city under MECQ for the rest of the month, according to Capt. Ludovico Librilla, chief of the Philippine Coast Guard Station in Negros Occidental.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas clarified the suspension order was only meant for passenger vessels.

Movement of goods and products between the two islands will continue during the travel moratorium.

Earlier, Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor also suspended the operation of tourism, recreation and accommodation establishments in the province to prevent the further spread of the virus.

Frank Carbon, operations and financial consultant of fastcraft operator Weesam Express, said they would comply with the order.

Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed support for the travel moratorium, although he said it would affect the economy.