More investors sought to improve shipping industry in the Visayas
TAGBILARAN CITY , Philippines — A resolution was approved en masse by the Regional Development Council-7 urging more investors to augment the shipping industry in Central Visayas, serving the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Siquijor and Negros Oriental.
Governor Edgar Chatto reported to Boholanos, through his weekly radio program, Kita ug ang Gobernador, last Friday said RDC-7 is now encouraging new players to spur healthy competition and improve the quality of sea vessels and the efficiency of the service via fast crafts and bigger boats.
Chatto said that since the shipping industry has been liberalized already, the RDC-7 looks forward to muster positive response from the shipping companies.
The entry of new players in the shipping industry will "mean enhancement of the vessels and efficiency of the service," said Chatto, adding that the Central Visayas routes used to be shared by Supercat, Oceanjet, Delta and Star Ruby.
The Dumaguete-based Delta Ferry and Star Ruby bowed to the Aboitiz-run Supercat. It was agreed later to give Supercat a full-hand on some routes and some to Oceanjet. Weesam came a few years ago and joined the competition. Supercat later sent in 2GO.
However, the recent setup failed to stir a kind of competition that would improve the sea travel service because of almost parallel offers.
Responding to public clamor and considering that the provinces in Central Visayas are top tourist destinations, RDC-7 realized there is a need to encourage new players in the shipping industry to prompt the shipping companies to survive the competition by improving their fleet in terms of quality and service.
This will also address the recent sea tragedies in the region, said RDC-7. (FREEMAN)
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