Montenegro Shipping Lines pledges online booking and potential fare reduction following Lamitan dialogue

Traveling between Basilan and Zamboanga is set to become more efficient as Montenegro Shipping Lines has officially committed to a series of operational upgrades, including the implementation of an online booking system and a potential reduction in passenger fares.

Following a second round of dialogues with the Lamitan City Council on April 27, 2026, Erwin Samboy Cervantes, Chairman on Transportation, announced that the shipping company has laid out concrete plans to address long-standing commuter concerns regarding ticketing delays, the presence of fixers, and high transportation costs.

Digital Transformation and New Facilities

One of the primary highlights of the agreement is the launch of an online booking system. This initiative aims to significantly reduce long queues and eliminate the inconvenience of manual ticket purchasing. In addition to web-based platforms, booking services will also be made available at KCC Mall de Zamboanga for increased accessibility.

To further improve passenger flow, a new ticketing office is scheduled to open along Alejo Alvarez Street in the coming weeks. The new facility is designed to provide a more comfortable waiting area and a more organized system for travelers.

Crackdown on Fixers and Fare Review

Management has confirmed that active measures are already being taken to eliminate fixers, a persistent issue that has drawn numerous complaints from the public. The goal is to ensure a fair and transparent service for every passenger.

Regarding travel costs, Cervantes pointed out that the current fare basis may be overestimating the travel distance. While the route is currently billed based on 16 nautical miles, the actual distance is only 14 nautical miles. Coupled with the recent decline in diesel prices, Montenegro Shipping Lines has expressed openness to reviewing and adjusting its fare rates downward.

Summary of Operational Commitments

Key Initiative	Expected Impact
Online Booking System	Reduced queues; ticketing available at KCC Mall de Zamboanga.
New Ticketing Office	Opening at Alejo Alvarez Street with an improved waiting area.
Anti-Fixer Operations	Fairer service and elimination of unauthorized middle-men.
Fare Adjustment Study	Potential reduction based on actual distance and fuel prices.

These developments are expected to provide a more seamless and affordable travel experience for the residents of Lamitan and the entire province of Basilan. Local authorities continue to monitor the implementation of these commitments to ensure the welfare of the riding public.