PCG: Over 3,000 passengers stuck in ports due to typhoon 'Tino'
(PHoto: Philippine Coast Guard)
More than 3,000 passengers were stranded in various ports across the country on Monday, Nov. 3, due to the impact of typhoon “Tino,” the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
From 8 a.m. to 12 noon, the PCG said that there were 3,103 passengers, 1,203 rolling cargoes, and 61 vessels stranded in 83 affected ports in Southern Tagalog, Bicol, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Southern Visayas, Northeastern Mindanao, and Southwestern Mindanao.
Meanwhile, 530 vessels and 389 motorbancas have taken shelter as a precautionary measure.
In anticipation of worsening weather conditions, the PCG has activated its Deployable Response Groups (DRGs) to assist in evacuation, rescue, and relief operations.
PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab said all DRG personnel have been placed on standby with rescue equipment, land vehicles, and floating assets ready for rapid deployment.
“By mobilizing resources early, the PCG aims to minimize potential damage and safeguard the lives of our fellow Filipinos,” Captain Cayabyab said.
“We also intend to deliver timely humanitarian assistance to the affected communities for their immediate recovery,” she added.
The PCG urged fishermen and small vessel operators to heed advisories from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), and avoid venturing into rough seas until weather conditions improve.
30 fishermen rescued off Bajo de Masinloc
Meanwhile, the PCG safely towed a distressed fishing boat with 30 crew members from the vicinity waters off Bajo de Masinloc to Subic, Zambales on Sunday, Nov. 2.
PCG patrol vessel BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) completed the rescue and towing operation of FB ERVY-8, which suffered an engine failure on October 31 amid challenging sea conditions near the shoal.
The crew managed to send a distress call, prompting the PCG to launch an immediate response.
The fishing vessel and its crew arrived safely in Subic on Nov. 2, and were turned over to the Coast Guard Station Zambales for medical checks and further assistance.