2Go launches newest cruise-ship-inspired ropax in Manila
2GO Travel has launched the roll-on, roll-off passenger (ropax) vessel MV 2Go Masigla at the North Harbor, Pier 4, Port Area Manila. It is the latest in its fleet of technologically advanced and cruise-ship-inspired vessels.
The launching was led by first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, who was tagged as the vessel’s “godmother.”
2Go launches newest cruise-ship-inspired ropax in Manila
Frederic Dybuncio, 2Go president and chief executive officer, said 2Go is committed to providing sea-going passengers with cruise-like amenities while remaining affordable.
MV 2Go Masigla features upgraded facilities and amenities, including spacious cabins, suite rooms, a restaurant, a clinic, shopping stores such as Watsons, Kultura and Miniso, and an escalator that leads from the gangway to the grand ballroom on deck.
“The ship is designed to pamper passengers and make their voyage truly exceptional when they are aboard a floating mall and hotel on the sea, a first of its kind in the country,” 2Go Travel said in a statement.
Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Business Unit head of 2Go Sea Solutions, concurred that their fleet of ropax, more than the safety and ease of travel, offers “experience” to passengers.
“The ship can carry more cargo, and its passengers can do more things on board,” Musngi-Ngo said, adding that the group intends to show the public that sea travel is leisurely.
Will Howell, chief financial officer and treasurer of 2Go, said one of the main selling points of MV 2Go Masigla is its cargo capacity, which allows passengers to bring six times more than the weight limit of an aircraft passenger.
“One of its selling points is that each passenger is allowed with 50 kilograms of cargo each. The vessel has a maximum capacity of about 700 passengers. Pets are also allowed to be transported with this vessel,” he said.
The 163-meter vessel was made in Japan and sailed in Korea before being brought to the Philippines.
MV 2Go Masigla is the sistership of MV 2Go Maligaya, the country’s largest and most technologically advanced ropax vessel.
The vessel also boasts 50 percent faster turnaround times than traditional freighters plying the trade routes of Manila, Iloilo, Bacolod and Cagayan. This enables businesses to expedite their supply chains.
“This faster flow of passengers and goods will help enable dynamic growth and a thriving economy as 2Go continues to invest and develop innovative solutions for travel and logistics,” 2Go said.
Howell added that 2Go is looking at trade route expansion in General Santos and Davao City by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, Commo. Arnaldo Lim, commander of Coast Guard District NCR-Central Luzon, who also graced the event, said that the Philippine Coast Guard ensures the safety of seagoing passengers traveling onboard rebuilt and refurbished vessels like 2Go Masigla through the conduct of safety inspections, making sure that all vessels are ready for sea and in top condition.
“We also enforce safety regulations, thus ensuring that all ship owners and operators maintain the upkeep of their vessels. By upholding the safety provisions of the Philippine Coast Guard Law, we can assure the public of a safe journey aboard these vessels,” he said.
“The launch of 2Go’s newest ship in NCR by the First Lady showcases the maritime industry’s importance in the Philippines, promoting economic growth and connectivity. Her involvement signals support for 2Go and government commitment to enhancing transportation across the archipelago,” Lim added.
The launching was also attended by Enrique Razon, chairman and chief executive officer of the International Container Terminal Services Inc.; lawyer Jabeth Dacanay of the Maritime Industry Authority; Engr. Marc Anthony Pascua, director at Marina Regional Office – NCR; Hans Sy, SM Prime Holdings chairman of the Executive Committee; Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, chief operating officer of Tourism Promotions Board Philippines; Christian Razon Gonzalez, executive vice president, ICTSI; Will Howell, chief finance officer of 2GO Group, Inc.; Gener Lim, Business Unit head and president of 2GO Special Containers and Value Added Services Inc.; and Jon Gabriell Manansala, acting port manager at PMO NCR North for the Philippine Ports Authority.