Global Oil Price Surge Disrupts Visayas Sea Travel Amid Middle East Tensions
Maritime operations and travel in the Visayas region have been severely impacted by the escalating global oil prices, driven by worsening tensions in the Middle East. Major shipping companies have announced widespread cancellations and fare increases, citing operational challenges.
Shipping Companies Adjust Operations
According to operators, the surge in fuel costs by up to 40 percent has significantly affected the operational expenses of sea vessels. This has compelled companies to revise tariffs and, in some cases, suspend routes to maintain financial stability.
- OceanJet has temporarily halted key routes connecting Cebu to Leyte and Bohol, with cancellations starting March 6 and expected to last until March 20, 2026. Affected trips include the 10:00 AM Cebu–Palompon and 6:45 PM Cebu–Getafe services. Passengers are entitled to full refunds or free schedule changes.
- Gabisan Shipping Lines has suspended its Monday noon trips between Cebu and Talibon starting March 9, opting for a more limited weekly schedule.
- Star Philippines Shipping Lines has implemented a fuel surcharge for the Cebu–Naval route effective the same date.
Fare Adjustments and Surcharges
Other carriers have introduced financial adjustments to cope with the crisis:
- FastCat released a new "fare matrix" starting March 6.
- Roble Shipping imposed a temporary fuel surcharge on all passenger and cargo fares from March 9.
- Super Shuttle Ferry increased fares and cargo rates by 20 percent across all branches from March 9.
- Montenegro Shipping Lines announced a revised schedule starting March 23 for routes between Dumaguete, Dapitan, and Siquijor, including new pricing for passengers and vehicles, from motorcycles to heavy equipment.
- Cokaliong Shipping Lines Inc. updated fares effective March 9, 2026, for the Cebu City to Surigao City route: Economy: P1,584, Tourist: P1,872, Cabin: P2,304. Discounted rates are available for students, minors, seniors, and PWDs.
Government Response and Price Controls
The Department of Energy (DOE) issued a strict price advisory until March 9 to prevent excessive increases. Prices are capped at P76.50 per liter for premium and special gasoline, P64.70 for regular gasoline, and P66.59 for diesel. The DOE warned that without moderation, diesel could reach P80 to P90 per liter in the coming weeks.
In response to the crisis, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered government offices to shift to a four-day workweek starting this Monday to reduce national oil consumption. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin stated that the agency continues to monitor gas stations nationwide.
