Tropical Depression (TD) “Ada,” the first tropical cyclone of the year, triggered seaport suspensions that left more than 4,400 passengers stranded while government agencies activated disaster preparedness measures in anticipation of added risks in areas affected by the unrest of Mayon Volcano.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabayab said sea travel disruptions were already felt particularly in storm-affected areas. At least 18 ports were affected by the bad weather with 4,419 passengers stranded as of Friday.

“Ang atin namang polisiya pagdating sa pagcancel or pagsuspend ng sea travels, una kung ang panggagalingan, dadaanan o pupuntahan ng barko ay mayroon pong nakataas na signal (Our policy on the cancellation or suspension of sea travel is that if the vessel’s point of origin, route, or destination is under a raised storm signal),” she explained.

Ada was bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to many parts of the country as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasts possible landfall over Eastern Visayas and the Bicol Region.

She said affected PCG units and regional offices have activated their Deployable Response Groups (DRGs) to assist in preemptive evacuation as well as search and rescue operations.

PCG assets, radio equipment, and floating units were placed on standby for quick deployment. Information campaigns were also conducted especially in coastal communities expected to be hit by the storm.

Meanwhile, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator Usec. Harold Cabreros said member-agencies of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) conducted pre-disaster risk assessments (PDRAs) and activated preparedness protocols ahead of the storm’s impact.

“Localities outside the potential landfall area may still experience heavy rainfall and severe winds,” Cabreros said. He urged the public to remain vigilant, follow authorities, and monitor official weather advisories.

Cabreros added that additional measures were in place in Albay due to the continuing activity of Mayon Volcano, which could worsen conditions once heavy rains arrive.

“Local government units in affected areas have been alerted to implement necessary actions immediately. Everyone is advised to take precautions,” he noted.

The PCG was also closely watching areas around Mayon Volcano for possible lahar or mud flow including the municipalities and cities of Sto. Domingo, Legazpi, Malilipot, Tabaco, Daraga, Camalig, and Guinobatan in Albay.

“Tayo ay nagsasagawa ng monitoring dahil tatamaan po itong area ng Bicol so there may be a possibility of mud flow (We are conducting monitoring because the Bicol area will be affected so there may be a possibility of mud flow),” Capt. Cayabyab said.