Commuters, cargo haulers, and motorcycle riders crossing between Cebu and Negros Oriental will soon pay less for their ferry trips. Island Shipping Corporation has officially notified maritime authorities of reduced passenger fares and rolling cargo rates along the Tangil, Dumanjug, Cebu to Bulado, Guihulngan, Negros Oriental route — in both directions — beginning Sunday, May 11, 2026. The company attributes the downward adjustment to a recent decline in fuel prices, which correspondingly brought down the cost of running its vessels.
The official notice, dated May 10, 2026, was signed by Dee Gabisay, Operations Manager of Island Shipping Corporation, and addressed to Engr. Ronaldo P. Bandalaria, Regional Director of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Maritime Regional Office VII, based in Lahug, Cebu City.
The fare adjustments cover a wide range of passengers — including regular travelers, senior citizens, students, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and children — as well as multiple categories of rolling cargo, heavy equipment, and motorcycles plying the Cebu–Negros Oriental sea crossing.
Updated Passenger Fare Schedule
Under the revised rates submitted to MARINA Region VII, the new passenger fare structure for the Tangil–Bulado crossing is as follows:
- Regular Passenger: ₱370.00
- Senior Citizen (with valid ID): ₱264.30
- Student / PWD (with valid Student ID or Study Load Slip): ₱296.00
- Child (11 years old and below): ₱185.00
The discounted rates for senior citizens, students, and PWDs are computed based on the mandated percentage discounts prescribed under Philippine law, calculated against the new regular base fare of ₱370.00.
Revised Rates for Heavy Equipment Transport
Island Shipping Corporation also updated the tariffs for hauling heavy equipment across the strait. Charges are structured according to unit weight and container size, as listed below:
- 7 Tons and Below: ₱5,800.00
- 15 Tons and Below: ₱10,500.00
- Above 15 Tons: ₱15,100.00
- 20-Footer Container: ₱8,500.00
- 30-Footer Container: ₱9,500.00
- 40-Footer Container: ₱12,000.00
These figures represent the full shipping cost for heavy equipment units and containerized cargo loaded aboard the company's vessels on the Tangil–Bulado crossing.
Rolling Cargo: New Rates by Vehicle Type
Rolling cargo — wheeled vehicles that are driven or towed directly onto the ferry deck — also falls under the revised pricing. The updated rates per vehicle category are:
- 8-Wheel / 10-Wheel / 12-Wheel (Regular): ₱4,200.00
- 8W / 10W / 12W (Extended): ₱5,600.00
- 6-Wheeler Fighter / Forward / 6-Wheeler Elf, Canter (Extended): ₱3,500.00
- 6-Wheeler Elf / Canter / 4-Wheeler Elf / Canter Van Extended: ₱3,300.00
- 6-Wheeler Bongo / 4-Wheeler Bongo / 4-Wheeler Canter / Elf (Premium Deluxe and Similar): ₱2,800.00
- SUV, Pick-up, Wagon, Multicab Extended with Passenger and Similar Units: ₱2,200.00
- Multicab, Auto, Sedan, Wigo: ₱1,500.00
The tiered structure reflects variations in vehicle dimensions, weight, and the amount of deck space each unit occupies aboard the vessel.
Motorcycle and Three-Wheeler Ferry Charges
Riders of motorcycles and three-wheeled vehicles will also benefit from the lower rates. The new tariffs, classified by engine displacement and vehicle type, are as follows:
- 2-Wheel Motorcycle – 200cc and Below: ₱800.00
- 2-Wheel Motorcycle – 650cc and Below: ₱900.00
- 2-Wheel Motorcycle – 700cc to 1,000cc: ₱1,200.00
- Tricycle / 3-Wheeler: ₱1,400.00
These rates are applicable in both directions along the Cebu–Negros Oriental route for all motorcycle and three-wheel vehicle passengers boarding at either terminal.
Why Fares Are Going Down: Fuel Costs Cited
In its letter to MARINA Region VII, Island Shipping Corporation explained the reasoning behind the fare reduction, linking it directly to movements in fuel prices. Operations Manager Dee Gabisay stated in the notice that fluctuations in fuel costs have a direct bearing on vessel operating expenses — and that just as rising fuel prices may necessitate upward adjustments, falling fuel costs provide the company with room to reduce its rates in kind.
The company framed the decision as part of its broader commitment to offering fair and reasonable rates to the riding public and its transport clients.
About Island Shipping Corporation
Island Shipping Corporation maintains its principal office at the North Reclamation Area, Cebu City, and can be reached through the following contact numbers: (032) 266-0718, (032) 340-6453, and (032) 266-0466. The company carries the motto, "We Sail for the Glory of God and Country."
The Tangil–Bulado route serves as a vital maritime corridor linking southwestern Cebu with the northern coast of Negros Oriental. The crossing provides regular ferry services catering to daily commuters, commercial transport operators, cargo haulers, and tourists traversing the Cebu–Negros strait.
In the Philippines, maritime fare adjustments are coordinated with and officially reported to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the national agency tasked with regulating, developing, and promoting the country's maritime sector. MARINA's Regional Office VII has jurisdiction over maritime operations in the Central Visayas area, including routes traversing the strait between Cebu and Negros Oriental.
Reminders for Passengers and Cargo Operators
Island Shipping Corporation has reminded travelers and transport partners that the revised rates take effect starting May 11, 2026. Those availing of discounted fares — particularly senior citizens, students, and PWDs — are required to present valid identification documents in compliance with applicable Philippine laws.
The company expressed appreciation for the continued support of its passengers and partners: "We sincerely thank our passengers, transport partners, and the entire community for their continued trust, patience, and understanding."
Passengers and cargo operators who wish to confirm the latest fare information before traveling on the Tangil–Bulado route are encouraged to contact Island Shipping Corporation's Cebu City main office directly prior to their trip.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Island Shipping Corporation