BACOLOD City – The long-awaited kick-off of operations at the Manapla port, located in Barangay Punta Salong, Manapla, Negros Occidental, has been rescheduled to June 28.
The port, managed by Manapla Port Stevedoring & Arrastre (MPSA), was previously scheduled to begin operations on April 5.
MPSA confirmed that the port will host regular trips to and from Ajuy port in Iloilo through an exclusive shipping partner – the Lite Ferries Shipping Company.
According to MPSA, the shipping company will deploy larger and faster vessels to ensure the safety and convenience of passengers and cargo, in adherence to an On-Time Travel Policy.
The daily trip schedule from Manapla port to Ajuy port is set at 7 a.m., 1 p.m., 7 p.m., and 1 a.m..
Meanwhile, trips from Ajuy port to Manapla port will depart at 4 a.m., 10 a.m., 4 p.m., and 10 p.m.
Dave Sarrosa, MPSA spokesperson, emphasized that the Manapla port is a key infrastructure project that is expected to spur economic progress in Negros Occidental. It will establish a new maritime route between Panay Island — particularly Ajuy and Concepcion ports — and Negros Island via Manapla.
Sarrosa added that maritime transport enhances trade, boosts tourism, and improves connections not only across local regions but also internationally.
“It creates opportunities for employment, small businesses, and logistics development that will uplift the community’s well-being,” he noted.
Moreover, he said that infrastructure projects related to the port, including cargo logistics facilities and warehouses, will generate employment for the domestic workforce and benefit multiple sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and tourism.
The port is a dream come true for the people of Manapla. It’s a milestone made possible through private sector initiative, linking Negros Occidental to Iloilo and opening new avenues for growth./PN
