Isabela City, Basilan — June 3, 2025
The Basilan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has raised alarm over what it calls the “unacceptable” state of maritime services between Zamboanga City and Basilan, citing rampant violations of safety protocols, worsening customer service, and the unchecked presence of illegal ticket sellers.
In a strongly worded statement, BCCI President Alex Abujen Jr. denounced the poor conditions faced daily by thousands of Basileños who rely on the ferry route for work, study, and commerce. He said unreliable schedules, overcrowded vessels, and unsafe operations have become the norm—placing lives at risk and harming the province’s economy.
“Basileños continue to suffer from unreliable schedules, unsafe and overcrowded vessels, and poor customer service—conditions that violate not only maritime safety standards but also the dignity of our people,” Abujen said.
Among the most troubling issues is the growing presence of “fixers”—unauthorized individuals selling tickets outside official channels. These illegal sellers often overcharge passengers and operate with impunity, leaving commuters, especially students and workers, vulnerable to abuse.
“This illegal practice exploits ordinary passengers and adds another layer of corruption and chaos to an already broken system,” Abujen added.
The BCCI is calling on government agencies and maritime authorities to take swift and decisive action. The group outlined several urgent demands:
- A crackdown on fixers and illegal ticket sellers at port terminals;
- A comprehensive audit and inspection of vessels serving the route;
- Strict enforcement of safety regulations and passenger protocols;
- Institutional reforms through dialogue with MARINA, the Coast Guard, local governments, and shipping firms.
“Basilan is not a second-class province. Our people deserve safe, dignified, and lawful services,” the BCCI president emphasized.
The statement underscores the broader importance of having convenient, safe, and reliable ferry services for island provinces like Basilan. Efficient maritime transport is vital not only for day-to-day mobility but also for maintaining economic growth, tourism, and access to education and healthcare.
For many Basileños, ferries are the lifeline connecting them to opportunities in Zamboanga and beyond. Poor services not only inconvenience passengers but also compromise their safety and restrict their potential.
Abujen also urged citizens to take a stand: “To our fellow Basileños: Your voice matters. Do not tolerate fixers. Report abuses. Demand accountability. Together, we stand not just for better transport — we stand for respect, safety, and justice.”
The BCCI’s call has sparked conversations among civic groups and commuters, many of whom hope this bold stance will finally lead to reforms in the neglected but critical ferry route.