Governor Cracks Down on Ticket Fixers at Dumaguete Port to Save Tourism
DUMAGUETE – Negros Oriental Governor Manuel Sagarbarria has called for urgent reforms after reports of widespread ticket fixing at Dumaguete Port surfaced.
Sagarbarria has called on the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) to urgently address growing complaints about “ticket fixers” operating at the Port of Dumaguete. The governor emphasized that these illicit activities are tarnishing the province’s image as a tourist-friendly destination and harming its local economy.
In a formal letter dated May 16, 2025, Sagarbarria appealed to Rey Del Moro Jr., acting manager of the Port Management Office of Negros Oriental and Siquijor, and John Lester Pitogo, chief of Marina’s Dumaguete Extension Office. He cited numerous reports from travelers who claim they were pressured to use unauthorized intermediaries to secure ferry tickets—particularly for routes to Siquijor and Dapitan.
“This practice has resulted in legitimate passengers being told that vessels are fully booked, only to discover later that seats remain available through these unauthorized channels,” Sagarbarria wrote. He added that the problem has led to long delays, missed departures, and undue financial burden on tourists.
The governor expressed serious concern that this issue is discouraging visitors from using Dumaguete as a travel hub. Instead, tourists are choosing alternative routes to nearby destinations, significantly affecting local tourism-dependent businesses.
Feedback from stakeholders suggests that if left unresolved, the situation could result in substantial losses in tourism revenue. “Our economic team forecasts an annual loss in tourism revenue due to this problem,” he warned.
Sagarbarria asked both agencies to provide a report detailing the actions they have taken and the plans they have to address the situation permanently. He also signaled his intention to escalate the matter if necessary, including a possible request to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for public hearings and collaboration with local lawmakers for legislative remedies.
The governor’s appeal underscores the urgency of restoring order and transparency at the Dumaguete port to protect both tourists and the province’s economic interests.