An estimated 10 million sea passengers are set to benefit from government fare subsidies as the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) rolls out the LAYAG o Lakbay Alalay ng Gobyerno Program on May 25, 2026.
In response to fluctuating fuel prices driven by global energy disruptions, the program aims to ease the burden on commuters who rely on maritime transport, while sustaining the operations of ship and boat operators.
Through MARINA Advisory No. 2026-20, the agency formally launches the subsidy-based initiative under the governmentโs Service Contracting Program (SCP), covering approved fare increases across key domestic routes.
MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan emphasized that the program is anchored on compassion for commuters affected by rising costs.
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Under the LAYAG Program, the government will provide fare subsidies to participating operators covering approved fare increases on 11 identified high-traffic and essential routes, including:
* Batangas โ Puerto Galera vv
* Batangas โ Calapan vv
* Jordan Wharf, Guimaras โ Parola Wharf, Iloilo City vv
* Buenavista Wharf, Guimaras โ Parola Wharf, Iloilo City vv
* Sta. Rosa, Olango Island โ Angasil, Brgy. Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City vv
* Liloan, Santander, Cebu โ Sibulan, Negros Oriental vv
* Zamboanga City โ Basilan vv
* Sta. Cruz, Talicud Island โ Poblacion Kaputian (IGACOS) vv
* Surigao City, Surigao del Norte โ San Jose, Province of Dinagat Islands vv
* Socorro, Surigao del Norte โ Hayanggabon, Surigao del Norte vv
* Socorro, Surigao del Norte โ Dapa, Surigao del Norte vv
The program will be participated by 33 shipping operators, supporting 93 passenger vessels operating along these routes.
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The subsidy will be computed based on actual passenger volume per trip and approved fare differentials under MARINA regulations, ensuring that passengers continue to pay only the pre-increase base fare while operators are compensated through government support.
Implemented under Republic Act No. 12314 (FY 2026 General Appropriations Act) and DOTr Department Order No. 2026-008, the program reflects a whole-of-government effort to safeguard both commuters and the continuity of maritime services amid global economic pressures.
As implementation begins, MARINA will closely coordinate with ship operators, regional offices, and partner agencies to ensure swift rollout, with subsidies released based on verified passenger data and transparent audit procedures.
Through LAYAG, the government reaffirms a simple promise: sa bawat hampas ng alon ng buhay, may gobyernong handang umalalay sa bawat biyahe ng Pilipino.
