Dumaguete: The Coast Guard in Negros Oriental has assured smooth and safe travel from the city port amidst an anticipated influx of tourists traveling to and from Siquijor.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, Coast Guard Station Negros Oriental commander, noted in an interview that even before Holy Week, there was a notable increase in the volume of travelers. Enopia emphasized that despite some shipping companies reducing their trips, alternative passenger seacrafts continue to operate on the Negros Oriental-Siquijor route.

Enopia highlighted that Montenegro Shipping Lines and Star Craft are maintaining their services between Dumaguete and Siquijor, and Ocean Jet is still conducting some trips along this route. However, Ocean Jet announced on social media that it is temporarily canceling certain trips to Cebu, Tagbilaran (Bohol), Dumaguete, and Siquijor. This measure is part of its Fuel Contingency Plan, following Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Advisory No. 2026-10, which directs domestic shipping companies and stakeholders to implement contingency measures due to the potential impact of the Middle East crisis.

MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan stated that these measures aim to ensure the stability of domestic maritime transport despite global disruptions. The canceled trips, scheduled from April 8 to 29, affect several routes including Cebu to Tagbilaran, Tagbilaran to Cebu, and various routes involving Siquijor and Dumaguete.

Ocean Jet has informed passengers that they can receive a full refund and reschedule their trips without any charges.