The Department of Tourism (DOT) has mobilized resources to assist 529 tourists stranded in various regions of the country due to disruptions caused by Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine”.
In the DOT's latest advisory issued on Friday, Oct. 25, regional offices reported the highest number of stranded tourists in Region XIII, particularly in Surigao del Norte, where 264 individuals were affected.
Following closely is Batanes in Region II with 179 tourists stranded, while MIMAROPA has 33, and Region IV-A, which includes Mauban in Quezon and Lobo in Batangas, has 16 tourists affected.
Additionally, Region VI, particularly Boracay, reported 12 stranded tourists, and Maasin in Region VIII accounted for 25.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco affirmed the department's commitment to the safety and well-being of both local and foreign tourists in the aftermath of the storm.
Frasco said the DOT is fully dedicated to ensuring their welfare by closely coordinating with regional offices, local government units (LGUs), and other government agencies.
Furthermore, she said the DOT is collaborating with accommodation establishments to offer temporary shelter to affected tourists and is working alongside LGUs and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to facilitate immediate aid.
The severe weather has also inflicted damage on 14 tourist sites nationwide, impacting areas in Sorsogon, Masbate, Batangas, and the Dinagat Islands.
While addressing the needs of stranded tourists, the DOT is also preparing to assist displaced tourism workers and affected businesses.
“As we continue to assess the damage to tourist sites and businesses, the DOT is ready to mobilize resources to help our tourism frontliners as well as tourism establishments recover and rebuild in the aftermath of the storm,” Frasco said.
Travelers are advised to stay updated through official weather bulletins from PAGASA and to refrain from traveling to affected areas until authorities deem it safe.