FASTCAT M17 resumed its inter-island ferry service between Liloan, Southern Leyte, and Surigao City on Oct. 20, 2026, to enhance transport links, commerce, and tourism between the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
The route officially reopened with an inaugural voyage departing the Liloan Ferry Terminal for Surigao at 4:00 p.m. Representatives from FastCat Shipping Line, local government units, the Terminal Management Office, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the vessel’s crew attended the send-off ceremony.
Built by Guangdong Bonny Fair Heavy Industry and designed by Sea Transport Solutions, the 50.6-meter catamaran RoPax vessel accommodates 360 passengers across Business, Premium Economy, and Sundeck sections, along with up to 41 vehicles. Powered by twin Yanmar engines reaching speeds of 17 knots, it features fully aluminum construction, elevator access for passengers with limited mobility, and full compliance with American Bureau of Shipping standards.
The restored maritime service facilitates seamless passenger travel and cargo delivery, strengthening regional economic growth through public-private sector collaboration.
FastCat is the trade name of Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corp. (APFC), founded in 2003 by business executive Christopher “Chet” Pastrana and Mary Ann Pastrana to modernize domestic maritime transport.
This resumption marks a significant milestone in improving inter-island maritime mobility, supporting trade, and fostering overall development across the Southern Philippines.
