Sea travels, tourist activities cancelled

CEBU, Philippines — Several trips in Cebu were cancelled yesterday due to the unfavorable weather caused by a tropical storm, which has been renamed Ferdie from Bebinca after it entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility at 6pm yesterday, Sept. 13, 2024.

Sea trips from Hagnaya Port in San Remigio to Santa Fe Port in Bantayan island (vice versa) and Medellin to Santa Fe were cancelled due to big and strong waves.

The Danao-Consuelo, Camotes (and vice versa), Olango-Engaño (VV), and Hagutapay-Pilar-Ormoc routes (VV) were also cancelled because of the inclement weather.

According to Jomalia Shipping, the trips of their vessels in these areas will remain cancelled until further notice.

Coast Guard Station Central Cebu also suspended all voyages of fishing boats and other small crafts with 15 GT (gross tonnage) effective 5pm yesterday.

In Oslob, its Municipal Tourism Office also released an advisory on potential cancellation of operations of sea water-related activities in Barangay Tan-awan and Bangcogon today, September 14.

The Tourism Office advised the travelers to stay updated on announcements and to be prepared for possible cancellations or delays. The office has also suggested tourists to consider alternative travel arrangements and to ensure a contingency plan.

“The safety and well-being of our guests remain our top priority, and as such, we are closely monitoring the weather situation to make an informed decision,” the LGU said.

Also in Oslob, the mayor declared suspension of classes both in public and private schools at all levels yesterday due to continuous rains and possible flooding in some of its areas. — (FREEMAN)