A New Shipping Link Between Negros and Panay
BACOLOD - Aznar Shipping Corp. launched its Bacolod-Dumangas RORO service on November 14, 2026, deploying the 2,337-gross-ton MV Manoling 7 between Bredco Port and the Port of Dumangas. The 16-nautical-mile journey takes approximately two hours each way. The vessel began operating under a soft launch on October 19 and currently makes four daily trips, with two departures from each port. It can accommodate around 30 to 35 trucks measuring 10 meters each, providing additional space for rolling cargo traveling between the two islands.
Supporting the Movement of Essential Goods
The new route serves trucks transporting agricultural products, consumer goods, petroleum, cement, and other construction materials. According to Aznar Shipping president and chief executive officer Kyle Alexander Aznar, the service was developed in response to customer demand, particularly from clients using the company's Tabuelan-Escalante route who need to continue their journeys toward Iloilo. By connecting Bacolod and Dumangas, the service provides another option for businesses moving supplies across Western Visayas. The company also said that cargo charges are based on the space trucks occupy on the vessel's deck rather than the weight of their products.
Expanding Opportunities for Regional Trade
The Bacolod-Dumangas service brings Aznar Shipping's network to five major inter-island routes and 10 regular ports of call across Cebu, Leyte, Panay, and Negros. The company sees further opportunities to accommodate cargo demand and plans to acquire two additional vessels using much of the proceeds from its proposed initial public offering, which could raise up to PHP670 million. It is targeting a December 18 listing, subject to Philippine Stock Exchange approval. With another shipping connection available, businesses can gain more options for transporting goods, while the wider regional economy benefits from improved links between island communities.
