Siargao’s Port of Jubang welcomes first vessel in historic maiden call
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — Mindanao’s first dedicated cruise ship facility marked a milestone as the MV St. Francis Xavier became the inaugural vessel to call at the Port of Jubang on the resort island of Siargao, sailing directly from the Port of Manila.
The 2Go Travel ship arrived on November 7 for what the Port Management Office (PMO) of Surigao described as a critical trial run to test operational readiness ahead of regular passenger and roll-on/roll-off (RORO) cargo services.
According to Port Manager Froilan U. Caturla, the maiden call was strictly operational, with no passengers disembarking or cargo being unloaded at the new facility. All passengers and freight aboard the vessel continued to other destinations, such as the ports of Nasipit and Ozamiz.
He said the trial run focused on essential port operations, including docking maneuvers, embarkation procedures, and ramp deployment—critical tests to ensure the facility can safely handle regular maritime traffic.
“The MV St. Francis Xavier (IMO: 8847595) is a Ro-Ro/passenger ship measuring 150.87 meters in length overall with a beam of 25 meters, making it a substantial test for the new port’s infrastructure,” he said. “While the Jubang Cruise Port was purpose-built as a dedicated cruise ship terminal, it is temporarily serving double duty by accommodating domestic liner services, including 2Go vessels. This arrangement is expected to be temporary.”
Caturla added, “Once construction is completed on a nearby cargo ship port, domestic liner operations will be transferred to that facility, allowing the Jubang Cruise Port to fulfill its intended role as a specialized cruise terminal.”
The development represents a significant infrastructure boost for Siargao Island, which has emerged as one of the Philippines’ premier tourist destinations, known internationally for its world-class surfing conditions and pristine beaches.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Ports Authority through the PMO Surigao, is mandated to regulate the national port system to ensure a transparent and fair environment for stakeholders that supports trade, commerce, and economic growth. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from PPA-PMO Surigao)
