BACOLOD CITY – The Manapla Port Stevedoring and Arrastre in Barangay Punta Salong, Manapla, Negros Occidental, announced on Sunday, May 25, that operations will commence on June 28, four months after the inauguration of the P180-million port on Feb. 2.
Manapla port in Negros Occidental operates starting June 28
In line with its opening, MPSA announced the roll-on, roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry schedule connecting Manapla Port to Ajuy Port in Iloilo.
It will serve as the final link of the new nautical highway between Negros Occidental and Panay Island.
The service, operated by Lite Ferries Shipping Co., will offer a significantly shorter travel time of just 1.5 hours between the two destinations.
The MPSA said that the new route is the fastest and most direct maritime link between Manapla and Panay, aimed at enhancing transit efficiency for both passengers and cargo.
Daily RoRo schedules are Manapla to Ajuy at 7 a.m., 1 p.m., 7 p.m., and 1 a.m.
On the other hand, Ajuy to Manapla is 4 a.m., 10 a.m., 4 p.m., and 10 p.m.
A second route to Concepcion Port in Panay will be launched soon, with travel time expected to take approximately 55 minutes.
MPSA will also feature a canteen, sanitary facilities, and lodging for truck drivers to be managed by local women’s cooperatives in partnership with the municipal government of Manapla.
The project now positioned as a strategic economic gateway linking Negros Occidental and Iloilo is expected to generate livelihood opportunities, stimulate local tourism, and boost the regional economy.