The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has been on heightened alert since October 29 in preparation for the potential impact of Tropical Cyclone Leon and the expected influx of passengers returning to the provinces for Undas 2024.
"Noon palang October 29 ay naka-heightened alert na ang Philippine Coast Guard at nagtalaga na tayo ng mga help desk para maging isa sa mga tanggapan doon mismo sa loob ng pier ng ating mga kababayan na nangangailangan ng assistance, maging medical man ito or any inquiries or concern nila," Cdre. Algier Ricafrente, Spokesperson of Philippine Coast Guard, said in an exclusive interview with DZRH's Damdaming Bayan on Thursday.
According to Ricafrente, vessel operations are ongoing, except in the Bicol and Quezon areas, where trips for small boats have not yet resumed still due to rough seas.
Furthermore, recent reports indicate that 47 passengers are stranded, primarily those traveling on small vessels.
Ricafrente noted that although the influx of passengers traveling to the provinces is moderate, there has been a significant increase in rolling cargoes in Batangas due to recent stranding and trip cancellations because of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.
"Kaya ‘yung mga goods na kailangan ng mga probinsya na manggagaling dyan sa Batangas ang drop-off ay hindi agad nakarating doon," said Ricafrente.
"Sa Maynila, iyan ang titignan natin mamaya. Pangungunahan ito ng ating Secretary ng DOTR si Sec. Jaime Bautista. Titignan niya ang kalagayan at preparasyon ng mga ahensya na kaakibat sa pag-maintain ng maayos na biyahe ng ating mga pasahero sa pantalan, kasama nga dito ‘yung Philippine Coast Guard," he added.
Moreover, the ocean conditions in Cagayan and the Ilocos Region toward Batanes continue to be unfavorable, leading to ongoing restrictions on travel.
The BRP Gabriela Silang is cited as an example; it was used to deliver relief supplies to Batanes, but it is currently docked in La Union to protect the crew from bad weather and rough seas.
Based on the PAGASA's latest weather bulletin, Super Typhoon "Leon" weakened to a typhoon category as it passes near the Orchid Islands in southern Taiwan.
