GASAN, Marinduque — The Philippine government is pushing forward an ambitious plan to enhance inter-island connectivity through the proposed expansion of roll-on roll-off (RoRo) ferry routes from Calapan Port in Oriental Mindoro to the island provinces of Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan.
The proposal was formally endorsed to the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) during the 2nd Quarter Full Council Meeting of the Mimaropa Regional Development Council (RDC) held on June 11 in Pasay City.
The initiative aims to reinforce regional integration under the Strong Republic Nautical Highway (SRNH) and stimulate economic growth, tourism, and trade across the Mimaropa region.
Currently, Calapan Port primarily services routes to Batangas in mainland Luzon. Despite its strategic location, its maritime reach remains limited, while nearby ports such as Roxas in Oriental Mindoro connect to Odiongan, Romblon, and San Jose in Occidental Mindoro links to Coron, Palawan.
Marinduque Governor Presbitero Velasco Jr., Chairperson of the RDC Infrastructure Development Committee, emphasized the critical role of expanding maritime routes to support island economies.
“I hope the Marina will implement this as soon as possible. With the expansion of the routes, it will benefit the two Mindoro provinces and the provinces of Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan,” Velasco stated.
The proposed RoRo routes are expected to complement existing maritime connections and improve accessibility across the island provinces. Local leaders say the move will help address logistical gaps and promote balanced development.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary Teodorico Jose R. Delfin also expressed support for the plan.
“The department wishes to thank the Mimaropa RDC for pursuing possible maritime routes that will bridge regional gaps and uplift local economies,” Delfin said in a brief statement of support.
Meanwhile, Department of Tourism (DOT) Mimaropa Regional Director Roberto Alabado III emphasized the project’s potential to boost tourism, especially in light of recent challenges.
“We strongly support the proposal. We experienced the closure of the airport in Tablas, Romblon, which impacted tourist arrivals. With the expansion of the maritime network, it would greatly enhance accessibility and increase the number of tourists going to Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan,” Alabado said.
First launched in the early 2000s, the Strong Republic Nautical Highway has been a cornerstone of national infrastructure, facilitating faster movement of goods and people across the country. MIMAROPA, as a vital segment of this network, requires continuous investment in transport infrastructure to support its development.
According to RDC officials, Calapan Port’s strategic location makes it a natural gateway for expanded inter-island shipping routes. The proposal is also aligned with Luzon Regional Development Committee Resolution No. 6, Series of 2023, which advocates the development of new RoRo services and the strengthening of port linkages in the region.
As Marina reviews the endorsement, stakeholders remain hopeful that the proposed route expansion will be greenlit soon, ushering in a new era of improved connectivity, economic vibrancy, and regional integration for the Mimaropa islands. — With reports from Ace Sapit, Marinduquenews.com
