FIRST RO-RO. The photo shows a vessel of the Starlite Ferries that will soon ply Batangas to Antique and vice-versa. Antique Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao, in an interview on Wednesday (Jan. 13, 2021) said that the Ro-ro operation will boost the economy and livelihood in the province. (Photo courtesy of Starlite Ferries)
SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – The provincial government of Antique is looking forward to more jobs being created as well as a vibrant economy for areas that will be served by the operation of the new Roll-on, roll-off (Ro-ro) vessel.
In an interview Wednesday, Governor Rhodora Cadiao said the management of the Starlite Ferries, which operate Ro-ro vessels, is now processing documents for its eventual operation at the Lipata Port in the municipality of Culasi.
“It had been our long-time dream that there will be a Ro-ro vessel that will ply from Batangas to Lipata Port and vice versa,” she said.
Cadiao added that the Ro-ro vessel route will be from Batangas to Caticlan in Aklan and then proceed to Lipata Port in Culasi.
With the Ro-ro operation in Lipata Port, more residents could have jobs such as porters.
“Our sugar migrants could already work as porters also at the Lipata Port,” the governor said.
Cadiao said she is still waiting for the specific schedule although the maiden voyage is expected next month, of which she is excited.
The Starlite Ferries will be the first Ro-ro to operate in Antique, with residents no longer necessitating to travel to Caticlan, Aklan to be able to take the vessel to Batangas Port.
The travel time from Batangas Port to Lipata Port via Caticlan is estimated to be about 14 hours.
The Ro-ro vessel has a 688-passenger capacity and could transport 70 private cars. (PNA)
