The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) suspended sea travel in the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor as a precautionary measure due to Tropical Storm Kristine on Tuesday, Oc. 22.
Ensign John Hoffer Olis, PCG-Negros Oriental station commander, and Ensign Richelito Arbis, PCG-Siquijor station commander, said in separate interviews that the suspension took effect earlier in the day.
The ban applies to vessels with a gross tonnage of 250 and below, although several shipping lines not covered by the advisory voluntarily halted operations, they said.
Strong gale-force winds associated with Kristine prompted the suspension, aiming to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
In Negros Oriental, Olis said trips to and from Dapitan, Siquijor, and Bohol were canceled as early as 3 a.m.Tuesday.
Similarly in Siquijor, Arbis confirmed that voyages to Negros Oriental, Cebu and Bohol were suspended.
However, barge trips from the ports of Sibulan, Tampi, and Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental were still permitted, as the larger vessels were deemed safe to operate under current conditions.
The Coast Guard reported no stranded passengers, as many travelers returned home or found accommodation.
The suspension of sea travel will remain in place until further notice, the officials added.
Meanwhile, the Negros Oriental Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, led by Adrian Sedillo, is closely monitoring the weather, especially with the ongoing Buglasan Festival.
Sedillo has requested law enforcement and support units overseeing the festival to also address weather-related concerns.
Gov. Manuel Sagarbarria has ordered the suspension of classes in Negros Oriental on Wednesday, Oct. 23.*PNA