Oslob Port reopens, seen to boost trade and tourism links in Cebu, Central Visayas

OSLOB, Cebu – Maiinit Port in Oslob, Cebu reopens on May 22, after 15 years of inactivity marked by the launch of a new sailing route linking Oslob, Larena in Siquijor, and Dumaguete City, which is expected to boost Cebu’s maritime network giving southern Cebu towns faster access to inter-island trade and tourism routes as well as strengthening sea connectivity for both tourists and local trade in Central Visayas.

The Oslob-Siquijor-Dumaguete route is services by the Super Shuttle Ferry boats of the Asian Maritime Transport Corp. (AMTC).  

“While the route is presently on dry run or soft launch and we’re also opening the passenger terminal at Mainit Port, Oslob to provide greater convenience to the riding public by establishing a direct and efficient maritime link from the southern part of Cebu to the neighboring islands of Siquijor and Dumaguete,” shared Paolo Rodriguez, AMTC chief operations officer.

Rodriguez, who is also the president of Super Shuttle Ferry and a key figure in the PCSA has pushed for stronger collaboration between government and operators to address gaps in southern Cebu routes.

“We envision Southern Cebu not merely as a stop along the way, but as a destination and gateway that seamlessly connects travelers to Siquijor and Dumaguete while showcasing the beauty and tourism potential of Cebu’s southern corridor,” Rodriguez said.

He added that AMTC also plans to put up solar-powered EV charging stations at the Oslob Port; an integrated transport with Ceres buses for easier travel from Cebu City to Siquijor via Oslob and more more boats plying the Panglao, Bohol to Oslob routes to complete the Central Visayas trade and tourism corridor.

Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro, in her message at the Port inauguration said the opening of Oslob Port port will shorten travel time for both passengers and cargo moving between Cebu mainland, Negros Oriental, and the southern Visayas corridor.

Oslob, already a top destination for whale shark watching and heritage tourism, stands to gain from improved connectivity.

“For Cebu and for the wider Visayas, maritime transport is truly a lifeline. As an island province and a regional hub, what happens in our ports, shipping routes, and maritime policies directly affects our economy, our tourism, and most importantly, the everyday lives of our people,” Baricuatro has repeatedly stressed the role of maritime transport in Cebu’s economy at the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association (PCSA) meeting in September 2025.

Maritime stakeholders and provincial officials envision this development to significantly boost tourism - including the continued growth of Oslob's renowned whale shark tourism - stimulate local economies, and strengthen inter-island connectivity among these key destinations.

Oslob draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually for whale shark watching. A dedicated port in Maiinit can ease congestion at existing landing points and make day trips to nearby Dumaguete and Dauin more viable.

Local officials say the Oslob port project aligns with that push — turning southern Cebu from a transit point into a stronger node in the province’s maritime economy.

Southern Cebu towns rely heavily on sea links for agricultural goods, construction materials, and consumer products. Faster, safer berthing reduces transport costs and spoilage, AMTC said.

Baricuatro also noted that efficient maritime services are crucial during emergencies and disasters for delivering aid to affected communities.

Cebu’s maritime sector has received  renewed focus in 2025-2026. The Cebu Maritime Expo in April 2026 highlighted job generation, shipbuilding, and workforce development as priorities. The provincial government has also pushed for better services on island routes to support both residents and the tourism sector.

Baricuatro pushed for stronger maritime infrastructure across the province saying efficient ports are central to Cebu’s economic and tourism goals. She said that the provincial government is working with national agencies and industry stakeholders to improve port efficiency, safety, and inter-island connectivity, ensuring that growth delivers tangible benefits to passengers and local communities.

Rodriguez on the other hand has been advocating for upgraded routes and facilities in southern Cebu. In recent meetings with the provincial government, he emphasized the need for safer, more convenient travel options for both residents and tourists.

Oslob mayor, Ronald Guaren said the reopening of Oslob Port helps address long-standing gaps in the Camotes–Cebu and Bantayan–Cebu corridors, and make it easier to expand services to southern towns.

“The new port can streamline tourist arrivals and improve links to nearby destinations in Negros Oriental,” Guaren said.

“When tourism grows, livelihoods grow too—from our small businesses and transport sector to the food industry and local communities,” Baricuatro added. (Photos: MBCNewman)