Lite Shipping Corporation, under its brand name Lite Ferries, is strengthening its presence in the Western Nautical Highway with the deployment of the brand-new MV Lite Ferry Twenty on the Batangas City–Caticlan, Malay, Aklan route, bringing greater passenger and cargo capacity to one of the country’s key inter-island corridors.
The new vessel marks another milestone in Lite Ferries’ continuing fleet modernization and expansion program, as the company responds to growing demand for reliable sea transport connecting Luzon and the Visayas.
At 90 meters long and with a gross registered tonnage of 3,923 tons, MV Lite Ferry Twenty is the company’s largest brand-new Ro-Ro passenger vessel acquisition to date. The modern ferry can accommodate up to 578 passengers, 30 12-meter trucks and six cars, providing additional capacity for both travelers and commercial cargo along the route.
Lite Shipping President Lucio Lim Jr. said the company’s entry into the Batangas–Panay corridor is part of its broader effort to strengthen inter-island connectivity and contribute to economic activity in the areas it serves.
“Our presence here means that we are connecting the Western Nautical Highway already,” Lim Jr. said, noting the company’s continuing expansion across key island destinations.
The deployment is expected to benefit not only passengers but also truckers, shippers, businesses and tourism stakeholders by providing a more direct and efficient maritime link between Batangas and Aklan.
During the blessing and inauguration on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Sonia Malaluan welcomed the arrival of MV Lite Ferry Twenty, describing the vessel as a modern addition to the Philippine domestic fleet and a reflection of the industry’s push toward safer, more reliable and world-class maritime transport.
The vessel has been granted pioneering status by MARINA, recognizing its upgraded service offering and contribution to the modernization of domestic shipping.
“Every new vessel that enters our waters carries not only passengers and cargo, but also opportunities, livelihoods, and hope for millions of Filipinos,” Malaluan said.
With its capacity to carry hundreds of passengers and dozens of trucks on every voyage, MV Lite Ferry Twenty is positioned to support trade, tourism and economic activity between Luzon and Western Visayas.
Building stronger connections across the islands
For Lite Ferries, the new vessel is more than a fleet addition. It forms part of the company’s long-term strategy to build a stronger and more connected domestic shipping network.
Lite Shipping currently operates routes across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao and has continued to invest in new and upgraded vessels.
The company said its fleet expansion is aimed at providing passengers and commercial partners with greater capacity, comfort, efficiency and reliability.
The company’s fleet modernization program includes the acquisition of brand-new vessels as well as the retrofitting of existing ships with more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly engines under its Golden Green program.
Lite Ferries also highlights its commitment to passenger comfort, with accommodations designed to exceed prevailing maritime standards through wider seating arrangements and more spacious passageways.
Lite Shipping has also been recognized for its efforts in maintaining clean ships, earning repeated recognition from MARINA and the Bureau of Quarantine.
Towards daily service
Lim said Lite Ferries is looking to further strengthen the Batangas–Caticlan service by deploying another vessel on the route, paving the way for daily trips.
“We are hoping that we will make this a daily trip,” Lim said, adding that another vessel would be deployed before the end of the month to increase service frequency.
The move is expected to provide customers with more travel options while strengthening the movement of people and rolling cargo between Batangas and Aklan.
Aklan 2nd District Rep. Florencio P. Miraflores likewise welcomed the arrival of MV Lite Ferry Twenty, describing the new vessel as a significant boost to commerce between Luzon and the Visayas.
He emphasized Caticlan’s strategic role as a gateway to Panay and a vital link in the Western Nautical Highway, particularly for tourism and the movement of goods.
“Brand-new ships like your ship are now docking here in Caticlan,” Miraflores said, expressing the province’s support for Lite Ferries’ continued operations and expansion.
Connecting islands, creating opportunities
Lite Ferries said the expansion of its network is anchored on a long-standing commitment to “bridging islands, connecting lives.”
Beyond passenger and cargo transportation, the company continues to support communities through scholarships, maritime training and humanitarian assistance during calamities.
The company supports more than 50 scholars at any given time and accepts hundreds of nautical and marine engineering graduates annually for onboard training and apprenticeships. It has also provided free shipment of relief goods to communities affected by major disasters.
Today, Lite Shipping, together with its subsidiaries, operates a fleet of Ro-Ro passenger ferries serving dozens of destinations across the Philippines.
With MV Lite Ferry Twenty now serving the Batangas–Caticlan corridor, Lite Ferries is poised to provide a stronger maritime link between Luzon and Western Visayas while supporting the movement of passengers, businesses and essential goods.
As the company continues to expand its fleet and network, Lite Ferries remains focused on delivering safe, comfortable, efficient and dependable sea travel—helping move not only people and cargo, but also trade, tourism and economic opportunities across the Philippine archipelago.
For shipping schedules, and other information and updates, you may follow Lite Shipping Corporation – Lite Ferries on Facebook @LiteShippingCorporation.
