The Southern Star Bus Transit, Inc., a bus line under Ceres Liner, does not intend to compete with smaller transport operators in Panglao as it only answered the public’s call to add more transportation means in the town, its spokesperson said.

The statement came after transport operators and drivers in Panglao expressed concern about the entry of Southern Star, the largest public land transportation company in Bohol, which could significantly affect their income.

According to Sothern Star spokesperson Frietzie Labastilla, they will likely start operations in Panglao next week as the bus company already secured permission from Mayor Leonilla Montero.

However, she stressed that operators in Panglao need not fret over its entry since Southern Star minibuses will merely be going through and will not be on standby at the town to wait for passengers.

Four 39-seater minibuses will go through Panglao four times a day, once in the morning, noon, afternoon, and at 9pm.

The bus company has also completed necessary files for operations and secured a franchise from the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board allowing Southern Star to have trips that go through Panglao.

Southern Star has significantly increased public land trips across the province and has minimized the cramming of many commuters in public transportation units.

The added trips have also been beneficial to workers who come from Tagbilaran City and students who commute to and from various municipalities including the capital, particularly as the rainy season starts. (with reports from Allen Doydora)