DUMAGUETE CITY: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has implemented a suspension of sea travels in Negros Oriental and Siquijor provinces as a safety measure in response to Tropical Storm Kristine. This decision affects vessels with a gross tonnage of 250 and below, although some shipping lines operating larger vessels have voluntarily ceased operations.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ensign John Hoffer Olis, the PCG station commander for Negros Oriental, and Ensign Richelito Arbis, his counterpart in Siquijor, confirmed the suspension commenced earlier in the day. The precaution was taken due to strong gale-force winds associated with the storm, aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.
The restrictions have led to the cancellation of trips to and from key destinations including Dapitan, Siquijor, and Bohol from Negros Oriental as early as 3 a.m., Olis stated. Similarly, Arbis noted that voyages from Siquijor to Negros Oriental, Cebu, and Bohol were also halted. Despite the suspension, barge
trips from Sibulan, Tampi, and Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental remain operational, as these larger vessels are considered safe under the current conditions.
The Coast Guard has reported no incidents of stranded passengers, as many opted to return home or secured accommodation. The suspension will continue until further notice, based on weather developments.
Meanwhile, Adrian Sedillo, head of the Negros Oriental Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, is actively monitoring the weather situation, especially with the ongoing Buglasan Festival. Sedillo has called upon law enforcement and support units associated with the festival to address any weather-related issues. As of now, no decisions have been made regarding class suspensions in the province.