Seen Sam Shipping Inc. launched its maiden voyage on June 12, 2025 directly connecting Mindanao and Luzon via its roll-on roll-off vessel, a game changing logistics that facilitates commerce by bypassing the Visayas connection following the temporary closure of the weakened San Juanico Bridge.
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said MV 1018 marked its historic voyage on the occasion of the country’s Independence Day celebration.
The voyage starts from Lipata Ferry Terminal, Surigao in Mindanao going to Port of Bulan, Sorsogon in Bicol, connecting Luzon, over a 21 hour sea journey.
Port Manager Froilan Caturla ng PPA-Port Management Office Surigao at Lipata Terminal Manager Allan Yap witnessed the arrival of MV 1018, from Mindanao together with Operations Manager Edwin Bordaje of Seen Sam Shipping Inc., the vessel owner and operator.
MV 1018 is a new Landing Craft Transport (LCT) measuring 85 meters, with gross registered tonnage (GRT) of 2,024 metric tons. The vessel has a capacity to transport 37 ten-wheeler trucks and 6-wheeler vehicles.
The Port of Bulan is located in the province of Sorsogon in the Bicol region. Specifically, Bulan is a municipality on the southwesternmost tip of Luzon, making it a key port in the province.
Freight charges start from PHP18,000 for 6-wheeler Bongo, PHP30,000 for Canter, Elf, and forward trucks, PHP44,000 for 20-footer trailers, and PHP115,000 for trailer trucks with installed heavy equipment.
The new ship is equipped with comfortable facilities, airconditioned cabins, and provides free meals for its crew.
The shipping company said that another ship may be deployed next week to augment to fully serve the cargo demand and further develop the new route.
