THE Bulan-Palompon route is now open to truck transport following the arrival of the LCT Poseidon 30 at Bulan Port in June 2025.
The vessel, owned by Concrete Solutions, Inc., is operating under a time charter agreement with Starlite Ferries Inc.
The Poseidon 30 can accommodate up to 27 trucks per voyage and is expected to help sustain cargo movement between Luzon and the Visayas while bridge repairs are underway.
A special permit issued by the Maritime Industry Authority – Regional Office 4 (Marina-RO4) authorizes its operations along the route from June 13 to July 6, 2025.
The route was opened in response to weight restrictions imposed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on the San Juanico Bridge. Vehicles weighing more than 3 tons are currently prohibited from crossing due to structural damage found on the bridge.
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To address the resulting transport disruptions, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), in coordination with shipping companies, launched the Bulan-Palompon service as a temporary alternative. PPA has advised truck owners and drivers to contact Starlite Ferries directly for voyage schedules, booking procedures, and applicable fees.
