Top Line Hi Tech and Synergy Corp. has partnered with the Provincial Government of Aklan to implement a smart port system at Boracay's Caticlan and Cagban ports to enhance the ticketing process and improve port management.
In a statement, Eugene Erik Lim, Topline Hi Tech president and chief executive officer, said the initiative will streamline the visitor experience by consolidating various fees into a single automated transaction using QR codes.
"Our Smart Port System makes accessing Boracay easier than ever by removing the traditional hassle of travel and empowering visitors to focus on enjoying their time on the island,” Lim said.
“We are extremely proud to collaborate with the Province of Aklan, the Department of Tourism, and all the Boracay stakeholders on this initiative,” he added.
Aklan Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores, for his part, said “Top Line’s Smart Port System in Boracay is a game-changer, streamlining operations and enhancing the overall tourism experience.”
“By embracing innovation, we ensure a smoother, more efficient journey for all our foreign and domestic visitors, while fostering sustainable growth for the island’s tourism industry,” he said.
The current system requires tourists to queue multiple times for arrival registration and payments for boat fare, administrative, environmental, and terminal fees.
The new Unified Automated Ticketing System will eliminate these multiple queues and separate payments.
Tourists can book and pay in advance through the Topline Travel App, a pre-booking link, or on-site at automated kiosks or ticketing booths. All options will offer cashless payment. Upon payment, a QR code will be generated for verification at the pre-boarding area.
Lim added, “With this smart upgrade, we aim to drive tourism growth in the Visayas and ensure that Boracay remains a premier destination for travelers. At Topline Group, we do not just ride the region’s growth momentum—we strive to be a catalyst for it.”
The first phase of the Smart Port System is scheduled for implementation in April 2025, ahead of the summer tourist season.