Biliran Island will soon enjoy direct connections to Luzon, as a major shipping company is set to finalize plans for a new route between the two islands.
Local officials recently met with San Ricardo Shipping Lines Corporation to finalize plans for a new maritime corridor from Naval port and Matnog, Sorsogon.
Naval Mayor Gretchen Espina met with officials of the Surigao-based shipping operator regarding the planned launch in March of the Matnog, Sorsogon - Naval, Biliran-Calubian, Leyte route.
"This new shipping route is expected to boost economic activity, improve accessibility, and strengthen inter-island connectivity in the Visayas region," the local government said in a statement.
The service will be operated by M/V Owen Gian 1, the company's first brand-new roll-on/roll-off vessel, according to a Facebook post.
The direct sea distance between the Port of Naval and Matnog is approximately 70 to 80 nautical miles.
Currently, travelers and cargo from Biliran bound for Matnog typically pass through Cebu or Leyte, adding time and cost to the journey.
The new route is expected to enhance trade flows between Southern Luzon and Eastern Visayas while offering a faster alternative for passengers and freight.
With the lessons learned from the weight limits imposed on several key bridges in Eastern Visayas, as well as the poor condition of the region's roads, transportation officials are looking into improving Eastern Visayas' sea and air connections for faster transfer of people and goods in the region.
(With report by PNA)
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