02/06/2025
Starlite Ferries Inc
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
A Reminder for Safe Pet Travel
31 May 2025
We at Starlite Ferries acknowledge the concerns surrounding the alleged incident involving pets on board our vessel. While we recognize the concerns this has raised, we aim to clarify the circumstances and reinforce the importance of following proper pet travel procedures.
โข Starlite Ferries became aware of this unfortunate event only after the video uploaded by BTv Cebu began circulating on social media on 27 May 2025. Until now, we have not received any complaints from any vehicle or pet owners.
โข Starlite Ferries does not have a Batangas-Iloilo-Cebu route as disclosed in the video.
โข The pets shown on the video, which were allegedly transported inside the vehicle on board a Starlite vessel, do not have a record in our shipโs cargo manifest. It can be seen in the video that the vehicleโs windows were covered and the coverings obstructed visibility into its interior, and thus if pets were inside the vehicle, the same were loaded onto the vessel without detection.
โข Starlite Ferries would also like to clarify the uploaderโs statement on the video, requesting from Starlite Ferries crew to allow him to go down the car deck to check on pets. The crew members of Starlite Ferries did not receive such requests from a vehicle owner or driver to go down the car deck to check on pets inside the vehicle. The cargo/car deck is strictly a 'no-entry' area for people, as it is designed to be airtight once the ramps are closedโan essential safety feature of the vessel, thus, it is not intended to accommodate people or pets during the voyage. Passengers are required to remain in the accommodation areas, while pets must be placed in designated spaces on board that have proper ventilation.
โข Starlite Ferries has a Pet Policy in place and we ensure this is strictly followed.
Keeping pets inside a vehicle during transit is not in accordance with Starlite Ferriesโ Pet Policy. Our policy requires pet owners to declare their pets before boarding, pay the corresponding pet fare, and ensure their pets are placed in the designated open area for their comfort and safety. Additionally, pet travel requires a Permit to Travel from the Bureau of Quarantine, a Vaccine Record, a secure cage, and a Certificate to Travel from a licensed veterinarian to ensure their well-being throughout the journey.
Moving forward, we strongly encourage all passengers and shippers to adhere to our Pet Policy to prevent any incidents from happening. At Starlite Ferries, we remain committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of all. We understand that pets are cherished family members, and their safety is of utmost importance.
Starlite Ferries is committed to ensuring the accuracy and fairness of information shared about this incident. We kindly urge content creators to verify facts before uploading or re-uploading videos, as misinformation can impact our reputation as a shipping line dedicated to safety and comfort. When necessary, appropriate legal measures and/or action may be taken to address inaccurate content.
