The Philippines is set to launch the region's first international roll-on roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry link, with a route connecting the cities of Davao and General Santos in the nation's south to Bitung in Indonesia's north.
The announcement came from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), with PCCI President Miguel Varela commenting that the international 'Super Shuttle' Ro-Ro will take its maiden voyage through a partnership between the business community, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Business Advisory Council and the Department of Trade and Industry.
"The private sector has taken the lead in spearheading the implementation of the project through a bilateral arrangement between the business sector of the Philippines and Indonesia," said Mr Varela.
Calling the project a "milestone", Varela said that the route will improve connectivity with other ASEAN members, cut transportation time by up to half, promote a significant increase in trade activity, as well as reduce transportation costs by up to ten per cent.
Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo added that, in light of Davao City's potential to become an Asian transhipment hub, the route would have full government backing.
"Definitely we want to pursue a more strategic economic relationship with Indonesia," Mr Domingo said.
Image Source: Vincent Paul Sanchez
