Sea trips in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor have been suspended as Tropical Depression “Verbenia” continues to bring strong winds and rough seas over parts of the Visayas.
The state weather bureau raised Wind Signal No. 1 over all three NIR provinces on Monday.
Coast Guard District Southern Visayas (CGDSV) confirmed on Monday that it is on Red Alert Status to heighten readiness and speed up response to the developing weather situation.
Four Coast Guard stations issued separate travel advisories on Monday, covering Northern Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Southern Negros Occidental.
In Negros Oriental, all types of vessels and watercraft were ordered to halt operations.
Only vessels seeking shelter are allowed to move, and operators must file a written request with no passengers or cargo onboard.
Northern Negros Occidental also suspended all scheduled trips, including routes to Iloilo, Guimaras, and Cebu.
Siquijor halted all voyages to Bohol and Cebu due to strong winds affecting Central Visayas.
Authorities in the island province reminded mariners that no passengers or cargo are permitted on vessels that seek shelter.
Southern Negros Occidental suspended island-hopping and all seawater-related activities as a precautionary measure.
Fisherfolk and coastal communities were advised to stay inland and avoid venturing out to sea.
CGDSV assured that constant coordination with PAGASA, LGUs, and disaster-response offices is ongoing to support timely advisories and community safety.*