First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos led the launch of the MV 2GO Masigla at Pier 4, North Harbor in Manila on Friday, April 26, 2024. With the First Lady are Business Unit Head for 2GO Ship Management & Technical Services Apollo Santos, 2GO Chief Finance Officer Will Howell, Vice Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation Teresita Sy-Coson, International Container Terminal Services, Inc. CEO Enrique Razon, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions Ms. Sharon Musngi-Ngo, SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos led on Friday, April 26, the launching of 2GO’s newest vessel which is expected to boost the country’s local travel with its upgraded facilities and amenities.
Named “MV 2GO Masigla”, the vessel will ply the country’s high trade commerce routes like Iloilo, Bacolod and Manila, saying these destinations remain popular and attractive for both local and foreign tourists.
The vessel's amenities were shown to the First Lady during a brief tour of the facilities at the Pier 4 of the North Harbor.
The First Lady was joined by 2GO Ship Management & Technical Services Apollo Santos, 2GO Chief Finance Officer Will Howell, Vice Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation Teresita Sy-Coson, International Container Terminal Services, Inc. CEO Enrique Razon, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions Ms. Sharon Musngi-Ngo, SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy.
Frederic DyBuncio, 2GO president and chief executive officer, said the launch of the MV Masigla aligns with the company’s larger mission to foster greater accessibility and connectivity for passengers and businesses.
“MV 2GO Masigla’s operations help connect goods reach various ports such as Iloilo, Bacolod, Cagayan and Manila 50% faster than traditional freighters. Swift turnaround times enable businesses to expedite their supply chains and meet their commitments with confidence,” said DyBuncio.
“This faster flow of passengers and goods will help enable dynamic growth and a thriving economy as 2GO continues to invest and develop innovative solutions for travel and logistics,” he added.
The new vessel has spacious cabins and various menu options for what DyBuncio described as a great dining experience are available to passengers.
He said the traditional “pasalubong” identified with Filipino travelers was also given importance in the design concept as various stalls are available inside for its passengers to choose from.
Also available inside the vessel are Watsons, Miniso, and Kultura shops onboard.
The ship, according to DyBuncio, also comes with a clinic to ensure passenger safety and well-being.
“The MV Masigla represents our common vision for the Philippines where we aspire for more vibrant communities and thriving industries. We continue to invest and become a catalyst towards the realization of this goal and today, reflecting this commitment by providing our passengers with cruise-like amenities that elevate sea travel while remaining affordable for the Filipino,” said DyBuncio.
“It is designed to pamper passengers and make their voyage truly exceptional when they are aboard a floating mall and hotel on the sea, a first of its kind in the country,” he added.