Bicol Region Suspends Classes and Sea Travel Amid Tsunami Threat
Several provinces in the Bicol region suspended classes and halted sea travel on Wednesday following a tsunami advisory. The alert came after an 8.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia, prompting local leaders to take precautionary measures.
In Catanduanes, Governor Patrick Alain Azanza ordered the suspension of all public and private school classes starting at noon. He urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid coastal areas. Additionally, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was instructed to prevent fishermen from setting sail due to the risk of strong sea currents.
Class Suspensions and Evacuations in Coastal Areas
In Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte, Mayor Ariel Non suspended classes in six coastal villages: Larap, Parang, Calero, Salvacion, Dahican, and Dayhagan. Meanwhile, Camarines Sur Governor Luis Raymund Villafuerte activated local disaster operation centers and ordered preemptive evacuations in low-lying areas across several towns. These include Cabusao, Sipocot, Calabanga, Tinambac, Siruma, Garchitorena, Lagonoy, Presentacion, Caramoan, San Jose, Tigaon, and Sagnay.
Governor Villafuerte also advised boat owners and fishermen to avoid sailing or to return to shore immediately. In Sorsogon, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office instructed local officials to take necessary precautions and maintain close monitoring of coastal zones.
Warnings and Precautions in Albay Province
Earlier, Albay Governor Noel Rosal warned residents of Rapu-Rapu town and Legazpi City to stay alert for unusual sea level changes. Rapu-Rapu Mayor Romel Galicia followed by suspending classes and directing village officials to prepare for possible evacuations.
Residents living near shorelines were advised to move inland, while all watercraft owners were told to avoid going out to sea or to remain offshore if already sailing. The PCG station in Albay suspended all sea travel for vessels in the affected areas to ensure public safety.
Impact on Educational Institutions
Bicol University also responded by suspending all onsite enrollment activities. Staff at its Tabaco City and Gubat, Sorsogon campuses were instructed to work from home until further notice, prioritizing safety amid the ongoing threat.
Local leaders noted the importance of these measures to protect residents from potential tsunami impacts following the powerful earthquake far away. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ready to implement further actions as necessary.
For more news and updates on tsunami advisory, visit Filipinokami.com.
