The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA-6) denied releasing an order banning “all types of bicycles” from passenger motor boats operating between Iloilo City and Guimaras.
“They clarified that they did not release an order,” City Mayor Jerry Treñas said in a statement on Monday, Sept. 26.
“They also shared that they will accept the loading of bikes and make sure to secure the area that will be open emergency access ways,” he further said.
MARINA-6 officials visited Treñas’ office on Monday to clarify the prohibition against bicycles on board the boats.
“The meeting with MARINA went well. Vice Mayor Jerffrey Ganzon and I are both very happy that bikes will now be allowed in the pump boats,” the mayor said.
“I express my disappointment in the non-consultation with the local authorities and hope that these things could be avoided,” he added.
The ban on loading of bicycles onto the boats was stated in a notice issued by the Jordan Motor Banca Cooperative (JMBC).
“The only reason why we posted such notice is to inform our valued commuters that at the moment authorities at the port are prohibiting the transport of all types of Bikes. Hoping that through our effort Bikers will have clear direction on where to proceed if they are to visit our beloved Province,” the group said in an official statement.
“It is not our intention to hamper the travel of every cyclist to and from our island but rather give information to them,'” it added.
In a separate statement, JMBC said: “The only reason why we posted such NOTICE is to inform our valued commuters that at the moment authorities at the port are prohibiting the transport of all types of Bikes. Hoping that through our effort Bikers will have clear direction on where to proceed if they are to visit our beloved Province.”IMT
