About Us

Home / About Us

About Us

At Maayo Shipping, Inc., we take pride in being more than a transport company—we are a team dedicated to connecting people, fostering growth, and setting higher standards in sea travel. With a focus on operational excellence and customer satisfaction, we remain committed to being the “much better” choice for maritime transport in the Philippines.

About Us

At Maayo Shipping, Inc., we take pride in being more than a transport company—we are a team dedicated to connecting people, fostering growth, and setting higher standards in sea travel. With a focus on operational excellence and customer satisfaction, we remain committed to being the “much better” choice for maritime transport in the Philippines.

Maayo Shipping:
A Journey Through Time

1976: The Beginning Of A Legacy

Maayo Shipping, Inc. was founded in 1976 by its visionary patriarch, Martin Matiao. The company began its operations with a wooden ferry boat named M/B Twin Sister, facilitating the transport of passengers and cargo between Jilocon and Bato, connecting the islands of Cebu and Negros. Despite the modest capacity—able to carry just one vehicle per trip—the service laid the foundation for the company's commitment to connecting communities.

Expanding Horizons with Perseverance

Recognizing the growing needs of the region, Martin acquired an additional ferry boat at San Jose, expanding the fleet to accommodate more passengers and cargo. Operating from a rented docking ramp in Jilocon, the company slowly but steadily established itself as a vital link for inter-island transport.

Transition of Leadership and Modernization

Following Martin's passing, his son Wilcox, the fifth child, assumed leadership. Under Wilcox’s direction, Maayo Shipping acquired its first steel-hulled ferry, LCM Tampi Twin, to address the increasing public demand. By the early 1980s, the company solidified its presence by acquiring 3,819 square meters of land in Tampi, enabling it to build a permanent docking facility and expand operations.

A New Era of Progress

After Wilcox’s untimely demise in 1991, the company faced a leadership crisis. However, Martin's grandson, Dante, inspired by his grandfather’s legacy, stepped forward to lead. Under Dante’s management, the company built its first barge, LCT Tampi Twin, marking a turning point for Maayo Shipping. With its capacity to transport larger vehicles and more passengers, this barge significantly improved accessibility between Cebu and Negros, benefiting both tourists and businesses.

Investing in Growth and Infrastructure

To keep up with increasing public demand, Maayo Shipping expanded its fleet, introducing larger steel-hulled barges like LCT Bato Twin and LCT Martin, each capable of carrying 4-10 wheelers. New additions, including LCT Giok Chong, LCT Georgia, and LCT Tampi Twin 1, further enhanced capacity and efficiency, ferrying over 100 passengers per trip. The company also implemented regular schedules to ensure reliability and convenience for passengers and cargo owners alike.

Enhancing Passenger Experience

Maayo Shipping continually improved its facilities to meet the needs of its growing customer base. An expanded terminal building with a waiting lounge, dining area, and clean comfort rooms was built to provide passengers with a more comfortable experience. In June 2006, the company invested in cementing and concreting its premises, including the expansion of its docking ramp and loading area, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence.

Today: A Trusted Partner in Maritime Transport

With a fleet of eight modern barges and a dedicated terminal facility, Maayo Shipping has become a cornerstone of connectivity for Cebu, Negros, and beyond. The company’s unwavering focus on safety, reliability, and customer service continues to drive its growth, embodying the spirit of its name, "Maayo"—always striving to be “much better.”

Our Vision: Navigating The
Future with Maayo Shipping

In the heart of the Visayan seas, Maayo Shipping rises not just as a provider of transport, but as a lifeline to the islands we serve. We deliver not only goods and passengers but also the promise of progress, carrying the pulse of commerce and connection across Cebu, Negros, and Siquijor. Like the waves that carry us forward, our journey is defined by the values of reliability, safety, and excellence—driving us toward a future where every crossing is smoother, every connection stronger. This is the Maayo spirit: unwavering, boundless, and ever forward.

Maayo Na, Maayos Pa: Anchored in
Excellence, Guided by Integrity

Safety and Sustainability – Our First Priority
In every voyage we undertake, safety is our guiding star. We are committed to ensuring the well-being of our passengers, our cargo, and our environment. The safety of our crew and the security of every item entrusted to us are non-negotiable. We work tirelessly to create a sustainable operation that respects both people and the planet, ensuring that every decision we make fosters long-term prosperity for our islands.
Passion – The Heart of Our Service
At Maayo Shipping, we bring more than just expertise to the seas—we bring passion. With every journey, we infuse energy, enthusiasm, and pride into our work. We know that what we do matters. Whether transporting goods or welcoming passengers, we strive to make each experience unforgettable, fostering lasting relationships with every mile.
Integrity – We Lead with Honor
Our word is our bond. We uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency, always doing what is right, even when no one is watching. At Maayo Shipping, we believe that true leadership is built on trust, and we work relentlessly to earn that trust from both our customers and our colleagues. Mistakes are simply opportunities to refine our craft, ensuring we grow stronger with each challenge.
Reliability – Trust in Every Voyage
Reliability is the foundation of everything we do. Our commitment to deliver on every promise means that our customers can trust us to get their goods and passengers to their destinations safely and on time. We stand firm in our dedication to operational excellence, ensuring that every crossing is not just a journey but a testament to our reliability and care.
Teamwork – Strength in Unity
The sea is vast, but together, we are stronger. We value each member of our team and the diversity of thought they bring. By working together in harmony, we achieve more than we could alone. We celebrate every success as a collective effort, supporting one another and helping our colleagues grow. Our teamwork is the wind that fills our sails, propelling us forward toward greater achievements.

Maayo Shipping Incorporated
Maayo Na, Maayos Pa!

Contact Information