Roble Shipping Inc. launches first brand-new RORO passenger vessel M/V Mother Immaculate Stars in China
Written by: Nueva Anya Canoy
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TAIZHOU, China — In a landmark development for the Philippine maritime industry, Roble Shipping Inc. officially launched its first-ever brand-new RORO passenger vessel, the M/V Mother Immaculate Stars, on May 16, 2026. The ceremony took place at the Taizhou Hongtai Shipyard Industry Co. Ltd., marking a significant transition for the Cebu-based operator as it invests in modern, purpose-built tonnage.
The M/V Mother Immaculate Stars represents a major milestone for the Roble family and the company, which has long been established as a leading ferry operator connecting Cebu and Leyte. Unlike traditional refurbished second-hand vessels, this new addition was designed and built from the ground up to meet international maritime standards.
Technical Specifications and Standards
According to data provided by the Philippine Ship Spotters Society (PSSS) and photos released by Jasper F. Roble, the vessel is an IACS-classed ship registered under RINA of Italy. This classification ensures that the ship adheres to rigorous safety and structural requirements recognized globally.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 95 Meters |
| Width | 20 Meters |
| Gross Tonnage | 6,483 tons |
| Deadweight Tonnage (DWT) | 1,700 |
| IMO Number | 1124528 |
Anticipated Arrival in the Philippines
The vessel is currently completing final outfitting in China and is expected to depart for the Philippines shortly. The M/V Mother Immaculate Stars is scheduled to arrive in local waters by the end of the second quarter of 2026.
While Roble Shipping Inc. has not yet confirmed the specific route for the new vessel, it is expected to serve the high-traffic corridors in the Visayas region. The introduction of a brand-new vessel is seen as a commitment to improving the passenger experience, offering modern amenities and enhanced reliability for sea travelers in the archipelago.
Industry observers and ship spotters have expressed excitement over the launch, noting that the deployment of new builds by local shipowners signals a robust period of modernization for the Philippine domestic shipping sector.
Source: Facebook
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