OceanJet announced significant route cancellations affecting inter-island travel between Cebu, Tagbilaran, Dumaguete, and Siquijor, citing continuous increases in fuel prices that have prompted the implementation of a comprehensive fuel contingency plan.
The ferry operator disclosed on April 7, 2026, that multiple daily trips will be suspended from April 8 through April 29, 2026, in accordance with Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Advisory No. 26-10, Series of 2026. The measure directly responds to the ongoing surge in fuel costs that has impacted maritime transportation across the Philippines.
Comprehensive Route Suspensions Begin April 8
Starting April 8, 2026, OceanJet will suspend its evening services between Cebu and Tagbilaran, specifically the 6:40 PM departure from Cebu to Tagbilaran and the corresponding 6:30 PM return trip from Tagbilaran to Cebu. These cancellations will continue through April 29, affecting passengers who rely on these evening connections for business and personal travel.
The suspension also impacts the integrated route system connecting multiple destinations. The 12:20 PM Cebu to Tagbilaran service will be cancelled, along with its connecting segments including the 2:40 PM Tagbilaran to Siquijor trip, the 4:40 PM Siquijor to Dumaguete service, and the 5:25 PM Dumaguete to Siquijor return journey.
Extended Cancellations Affect Morning Services
Beginning April 9, 2026, additional morning and midday services will join the suspension list. The early morning 5:00 AM departure from Siquijor to Dumaguete, traditionally popular among commuters and early travelers, will be cancelled along with the connecting 6:20 AM Dumaguete to Siquijor service.
The ripple effect extends through the morning schedule with the cancellation of the 7:20 AM Siquijor to Tagbilaran trip and the subsequent 10:00 AM Tagbilaran to Cebu service. This creates a significant gap in morning travel options for passengers moving between these key destinations in the Central Visayas region.
The afternoon services remain affected, with the continuation of cancellations for the 12:20 PM Cebu to Tagbilaran route and all its connecting segments through Siquijor and Dumaguete, maintaining consistency with the April 8 suspension schedule.
Passenger Accommodation and Refund Policies
OceanJet has implemented comprehensive passenger protection measures for those affected by the route cancellations. According to the company's announcement, all affected passengers will receive accommodation on the next available trip or may opt for an earlier departure, depending on individual preferences and seat availability.
The ferry operator guarantees full refunds for cancelled trips without additional processing fees or deductions. Passengers also qualify for free rescheduling services, allowing them to book alternative travel dates without incurring rebooking charges that typically apply to voluntary itinerary changes.
For immediate assistance with rebooking or refund processing, passengers must visit OceanJet's physical ticketing offices. The company has not indicated that these services will be available through online platforms or third-party booking agents during the contingency period.
Customer Service and Communication Channels
OceanJet has established specific contact schedules to manage the expected increase in passenger inquiries and rebooking requests. During weekdays, from Monday through Friday, customer service operates extended hours from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, accessible through the primary contact number (032) 255 7560.
Weekend service hours are reduced, with Saturday and Sunday operations running from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM using the same primary contact number. An additional mobile line, +63 962 256 4399, provides support Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, offering passengers multiple communication options during peak inquiry periods.
The company also directs passengers to its Facebook page for inquiries and clarifications, acknowledging the growing reliance on social media platforms for customer service in the Philippines' transportation sector.
Industry-Wide Fuel Cost Pressures
The implementation of MARINA Advisory No. 26-10, Series of 2026, reflects broader challenges facing the Philippine maritime industry as fuel costs continue their upward trajectory. Fuel expenses typically represent 30-40% of operational costs for ferry operators, making service adjustments necessary when prices experience sustained increases.
Maritime transportation serves as a crucial link between islands in the Central Visayas region, supporting both tourism and commerce. The affected routes connect major population centers and tourist destinations, with Dumaguete serving as a gateway to Negros Oriental, while Siquijor remains a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors.
The three-week suspension period coincides with the post-Easter travel season, when many Filipino families and tourists typically plan inter-island trips. The timing may compound the impact on passengers who have already made accommodation bookings and travel plans dependent on the suspended ferry schedules.
Regional Transportation Alternatives
Passengers affected by the OceanJet cancellations may need to consider alternative transportation options or adjust travel dates to coincide with available services. Other ferry operators serving similar routes may experience increased demand during OceanJet's suspension period, potentially affecting ticket availability and pricing.
The integrated nature of the cancelled routes means passengers planning multi-destination trips will need to completely restructure their itineraries. Those traveling from Cebu to Siquijor via Tagbilaran, or continuing to Dumaguete, must now rely on the remaining OceanJet schedules or seek alternative carriers.
The company's commitment to accommodating passengers on remaining services suggests confidence that existing capacity can absorb the displaced passenger load, though this may result in fuller boats and reduced schedule flexibility during the contingency period.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of OceanJet/Facebook