LAGAWAN: PH-INDONESIA RORO TRIPS THIS 2013

According to ABS-CBN News, a Philippine roll-on, roll-of (or RORO) will start its trips which will utilize the Davao-GenSan to Bitung, Indonesia route to start in the middle of this year. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce stated that this project between the two countries will improve trade, tourism, and connectivity. This is also our country's first RORO service to an ASEAN country. The project was pursued after a memorandum of cooperation between Davao City and Manado (Indonesia) chambers of commerce was signed last November.

RORO, en.wikipedia.org

Hmmmmm. A wonderful news for those backpackers and travelers, and especially to the business sector. A new adventure for thrill seekers and a new route for budget travelers. And reading on further news Super Shuttle, which is a Cebu-based company, committed to initially service the Davao-Bitung route once a week (read source here).

I know where Davao City and General Santos City is, but where in the world is Bitung, Indonesia?

Bitung, indonesia-tourism.com

Located on the northern coast of Sulawesi, Bitung is covered in lush, green hills and valleys. The name of the town comes from a kind of shady tree grown on the coastal areas where people could take shelter from sun, rain and wind. Wildlife is abundant, and there is a wildlife sanctuary nearby.

Bitung, Indonesia to Davao City, maps.google.com

Bitung is an international seaport in Indonesia, and 350 nautical miles from Davao City. Bitung does not boast of being a tourist attraction, but it is the entry and exit point to North Sulawesi.

However, it is adjacent to the Lembeh Strait and Island which has gained a reputation for being the world's no. 1 spot for divers interested in odd and rare macro fauna, and t is also known for its colorful marine life especially sea slugs.