Buenavista motorboats fare up

By Erly C. Garcia

Motorboat passengers to and from Buenavista, Guimaras woke up to a new fare rate Monday as the 2-peso fare increase approved by the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) took its first day.

From the previous P9.00 fare the new regular fare is now P11.00. Student fare, on the other hand, is P9.35 while senior citizens fare is P8.80.

Reports said the fare hike was approved by the Marina on July 21 after a summary hearing and has as its effectivity date August 1, 2005.

Motorboat passengers, however, were surprised with the sudden increase. They said they were not informed nor consulted of the said move.

The Buenavista Motorboat Owners and Sailors Association (Bamosa) headed by Edgardo Sagre applied for the fare increase following the series of increases in the price of fuel.

Reports said, next to go up will be the fees for the cargoes. Presently, the association officers are preparing the requirements for the filing of petition to increase charges on cargoes.

Meanwhile, the Jordan Motorbanca Association (JMBA) headed by Sandra Davila is yet to have its petition for fare increase approved by the Marina.

Reportedly the Jordan motorboat group is asking for a .50 to P1.00 increase. Presently they are charging P8.50 per passenger.

The News Today learned that the JMBA's petition would be scheduled for summary hearing soon.

The Buenavista motorboats dock at the Parola in Fort San Pedro while the Jordan motorboats dock at the Ortiz wharf.

The motorboats are the main mode of transport from Iloilo City to Guimaras and vice versa.