FASTCAT, the flagship brand of Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corp. (APFC), inaugurated its new Zamboanga-Basilan route on Oct. 22, 2024, marking a significant expansion in its services.
With the addition of this route, FastCat now serves 10 paired ports across the Philippines. The newly deployed vessel, M11, will operate three trips daily, taking approximately two hours to reach Basilan.
“As an island dependent on water mobility, we have heavily relied on RoRo vessels,” said Basilan Gov. Hadjiman Hataman Salliman. “Given our agri fisheries-based economy, the FastCat will provide a more convenient and comfortable option.”
Guests and government officials during the formal launch of the FastCat Zamboanga-Basilan route include (from left) SSg. Hassan PA, JTFZ, Bettina Rosse Laurel (AVP-Sales and Marketing), Capt. Mark Saladino (AVP-Operations), Zamboanga Councilor Jerome Santos, Capt. Larry Cendaña (PCG Commander Station) and Capt. Lestin Laher (Designated Person Ashore). PHOTO BY MARK JOSEPH BARNEDO
The new ferry service is expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity, making it easier for businesses and tourists to move between areas.
“Time is of the essence for ferry travel. Ferry second, ferry minute is ferry important,” said Capt. Mark Saladino, vice president for operations of FastCat. “We, here at FastCat, provide a safe and fast mode of transportation.”
FastCat M11, the ferry used for the Zamboanga-Basilan route, can travel at 19 knots and accommodate up to 300 passengers, 40 cars, and seven trucks or buses. The travel time between the two areas is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. With six daily trips, FastCat can help accommodate the average of 3000 daily passengers en route Zamboanga-Basilan.
“With this new RoRo, we can welcome more people to visit our numerous island destinations in Zamboanga,” said Councilor Jerome Santos, expressing enthusiasm about the new ferry service and emphasizing that the perception of Zamboanga and Basilan regarding peace and order is no longer accurate.
With the potential increase in demand for water mobility, the construction of the new port terminal building in Zamboanga Port is ongoing, adding two more berths to cater as part of the expansion programs of PPA.
“While there have been occasional incidents during peak passenger traffic, we are confident that our port infrastructure is well-prepared to handle increased congestion,” said Alvin Gumba Jr., operations head of Global Port Terminals.
Zamboanga’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, fishing, and trade, making connectivity crucial for regional commerce. The new FastCat route is expected to streamline the transport of goods and bolster trading activities between Zamboanga and Basilan, as well as other islands like Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
FastCat aims to create more livelihood opportunities for local communities by making the movement of agricultural products and crafts more efficient.
Basilan, known as the “Treasure Islands of the Southern Seas,” is gaining recognition for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. The new ferry connection not only facilitates trade but also boosts tourism, making it easier for visitors to explore Basilan’s natural beauty and Zamboanga’s rich cultural heritage, which blends Western, Spanish, and indigenous influences.
FastCat also aims to empower small and medium enterprises by offering a reliable means of transport. “FastCat continues to help boost local businesses and tourism to uplift the lives of Filipinos and contribute to the overall economic development of the country.”
The improved connectivity bridges gaps between isolated areas, creating growth opportunities and boosting local industries. FastCat’s expansion strengthens its role as an economic enabler, supporting regional trade and sustainable tourism to drive economic growth in Mindanao’s coastal communities.
The FastCat ferry operates daily, with departures from Zamboanga City at 6:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Return Trips from Basilan are scheduled for 8:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. Fares start at P240 for economy class, with premium economy at P252 and business class at P280.
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