Small seacraft in Bicol barred from sailing due to gale warning

LEGAZPI CITY , Philippines  – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) barred small seacraft in Bicol, including wooden-hulled and outriggered boats, from sailing following a gale warning from the weather bureau that the prevailing northeast winds of up to 60 kilometers per hour (kph) are expected to trigger rough to very rough seas with waves reaching as high as five meters.

Rodolfo Fontanares, PCG deputy director based here, said they have denied the issuance of departure permits for these small seacraft plying inter-island routes, particularly those facing the Pacific Ocean.

“We told them that although there is no storm signal anywhere in Bicol, the very rough waves can inflict similar danger to small vessels, particularly those with wooden hulls and outriggers,” Fontanares said.

He added though that the suspension is being carried out on a case-to-case basis.

“In areas which are not experiencing rough seas and strong winds, we allow them to continue their travel,” he said, adding that the ban for small seacraft would be immediately lifted once weather and sea conditions improve.

In gale warning No. 18 issued yesterday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the seaboards of northern, eastern and southern Luzon were experiencing a wind force of up to 58 kph or 36 knots.