Ferry operator OceanJet will implement a temporary fuel surcharge on four key routes starting March 16, 2026, as the company responds to continuing increases in fuel prices that have impacted maritime operations across the Philippines.

According to an advisory posted on OceanJet’s official Facebook page on Tuesday, the fuel surcharge will affect the Cebu-Ormoc, Cebu-Maasin, Maasin-Surigao, and Cebu-Getafe routes, with fare increases ranging from PHP 90 to PHP 220 depending on the route and accommodation class.

The company emphasized that the surcharge is temporary and will be removed once fuel prices return to normal levels. OceanJet apologized to passengers for any inconvenience caused by the fare adjustment.

Updated Fare Structure

The new fare structure, effective March 16, 2026, will see significant increases across the affected routes. The Cebu-Ormoc route will charge PHP 1,320 for Tourist/Open Air accommodation and PHP 1,900 for Business Class passengers.

Similar rates will apply to the Cebu-Maasin route, with Tourist/Open Air seats priced at PHP 1,320 and Business Class tickets at PHP 1,900. The Maasin-Surigao connection will cost PHP 960 for Tourist/Open Air and PHP 1,440 for Business Class accommodations.

The shortest route affected, Cebu-Getafe, will have the most modest increase, with Tourist/Open Air fares set at PHP 540 and Business Class at PHP 960.

Routes Exempt from Increases

OceanJet clarified that routes not specifically mentioned in the advisory will maintain their current fare structure with no increases implemented at this time. However, the company warned that this could change depending on future fuel conditions and operational requirements.

The ferry operator committed to informing passengers in advance should any further fare adjustments become necessary across other routes in its network.

Impact on Regional Connectivity

The fare increases will directly impact passengers traveling between major Central Visayas destinations and connections to Mindanao. The Cebu-Ormoc route serves as a crucial link between Cebu and Leyte provinces, while the Cebu-Maasin connection provides access to Southern Leyte.

The Maasin-Surigao route is particularly significant as it connects the Visayas region to Mindanao, serving passengers traveling between Southern Leyte and Surigao del Norte. This route is frequently used by both tourists and residents for inter-island travel.

The Cebu-Getafe route, connecting Cebu to Bohol province, serves both local commuters and tourists visiting Bohol’s attractions. Despite being the shortest route among those affected, it remains vital for regional connectivity.

Company’s Operational Commitment

In its advisory, OceanJet assured passengers that the company continues to carefully manage its operations while maintaining its commitment to providing safe, efficient, and dependable sea travel services throughout the region.

The ferry operator acknowledged that the fare increase is “not ideal” for passengers but positioned it as a necessary measure to sustain operations amid volatile fuel costs that have affected the entire maritime transport sector.

Fuel Price Pressures on Maritime Industry

The implementation of fuel surcharges reflects broader challenges facing the Philippine maritime industry, as operators grapple with fluctuating fuel costs that directly impact operational expenses. Ferry companies across the archipelago have been monitoring fuel price trends closely as they balance operational sustainability with passenger affordability.

Maritime transport remains crucial for inter-island connectivity in the Philippines, making fare adjustments particularly sensitive for communities that depend on sea travel for economic and social connections.

Passenger Information and Updates

OceanJet directed passengers to seek updates and make inquiries only through official channels, including the company’s official Facebook page, ticketing offices, authorized agents, or customer service hotlines.

The company emphasized the importance of relying on official sources to avoid misinformation about fare changes and schedule adjustments that may affect travel plans.

Looking Ahead

The temporary nature of the surcharge means passengers can expect fare reductions once fuel prices stabilize. However, OceanJet has not provided specific criteria or timelines for when the surcharge might be lifted.

The company’s approach of implementing selective route increases rather than system-wide fare adjustments suggests a strategic response aimed at minimizing passenger impact while addressing operational pressures on the most fuel-intensive routes.

Passengers planning to travel on affected routes are advised to factor the increased fares into their travel budgets and check for any additional updates through OceanJet’s official communication channels before their departure dates.

Photo credit: Photo courtesy of OceanJet/Facebook