Nearly 100 Passengers Stranded in Bicol Ports
Nearly 100 passengers are currently stranded across three ports in the Bicol region due to Tropical Storm Crising, sources said. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that this weather disturbance has led to significant travel disruptions, grounding both passengers and vessels in the area.
According to local officials, 64 passengers along with 21 roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ships remain stuck at Tabaco Port in Albay. Meanwhile, Virac Port in Catanduanes is holding 27 passengers and 13 RoRo vessels, while San Andres Port, also in Catanduanes, has seven passengers stranded. Additionally, four other vessels are stranded in Tabaco, and three more are at Virac, where one boat sought shelter amid worsening conditions.
Suspension of Vessel Trips Across Affected Provinces
Commodore Ivan Roldan, PCG Bicol Commander, explained that all vessel trips, regardless of type or size, have been suspended across the provinces of Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, and Camarines Sur, which are currently under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1. Furthermore, trips from Albay heading to Catanduanes have also been halted to ensure safety.
“All vessel trips, regardless of type and tonnage, are suspended in the provinces of Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, and Camarines Sur, which are under Tropical Wind Cyclone Signal No. 1. Additionally, in Albay, all vessels heading to Catanduanes are also suspended. We are monitoring the situation and coordinating with other concerned agencies to ensure the safety of all passengers,” Roldan said.
Safety Advisories for Mariners in Nearby Provinces
In Sorsogon, authorities advised vessels with a gross tonnage below three to avoid traveling in or out of local waters. Mariners in Masbate who operate medium-sized boats and similar vessels were strongly urged to exercise extreme caution or avoid venturing out altogether during the storm.
Roldan confirmed the PCG remains on red alert, deploying over 400 personnel and mobilizing land and water assets for immediate response.
Storm Details and Current Location
The weather bureau reported that Tropical Storm Crising has intensified, now packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near its center, with gusts reaching up to 80 kph. As of early morning, the cyclone was located approximately 335 kilometers east of Echague, Isabela, or 325 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, moving northwest at 20 kph.
Local officials continue to monitor the storm closely and coordinate with agencies to safeguard those affected. Travelers are advised to stay updated and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
For more news and updates on Tropical Storm Crising, visit Filipinokami.com.
