New fast craft route seen to boost Surigao tourism, economy

BUTUAN CITY: The entry of a new fast craft route connecting Surigao City to Maasin City in Southern Leyte and Cebu is expected to further boost tourism and economy of these areas. The OceanJet, set to make its maiden voyage on July 15, will have a capacity of 200 passengers and is expected to help boost the economic activity and tourism industry in Surigao City and the rest of the Caraga Region, according to Robbie Ruaya, chief of Surigao City's public information office. 'Currently, there are no regular trips of fast crafts between Surigao City and Cebu. Only roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) vessels, the Starlite and Cokaliong, have regular trips from here to Cebu and the rest of the Visayas, but these are not fast crafts,' Ruaya said in an interview Monday. Top OceanJet executives met with Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II last week, Ruaya said, adding that OceanJet is also waiting for the approval of their documents from the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Surigao. In a separate statement on Monday, Dumlao expressed full s upport for the route's opening given the opportunities it will bring to the city. 'We are seeing a great potential to enhance sea transport, which is beneficial to the residents of Surigao City as well as our visitors from the Visayas,' he said. He added that the entry of a new player in the maritime industry aligns with the city's goals of improving transportation and promoting economic growth. Source: Philippines News Agency