PCG suspends trips for light vessels

THE trips of light vessels from Surigao del Norte to Siargao Island and Bucas Grande Island remain temporarily suspended as of Wednesday, January 31, due to strong gale force winds associated with the northeast monsoon, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

The vessels and watercraft that are not allowed to sail are those with 250 gross tonnage (GT) and below, the PCG said in advisory.

On the other hand, the temporary suspension of all vessels and watercraft sailing from Surigao del Norte to the province of Dinagat Islands and island barangay (villages) of Surigao City, as those from Hayanggabon en route to Socorro has been lifted.

However, vessels of 150 GT and below traveling to the mentioned areas remain under suspension.

The PCG said strong to gale force winds associated with northeast monsoon have resulted in a rough to very rough sea condition with waves of about 2.8 meters to 4.5 meters in height. The northeast monsoon has also caused cloudy skies, brought scattered rain showers, thunderstorms and a wind speed of 45 to 63 kilometers per hour.

Vessels allowed to sail are reminded to take precautionary measures and to be extra vigilant in monitoring unfavorable weather and sea conditions, the PCG said.

It said vessels with an intention to take shelter shall be permitted as long as it is manifested through a written request.

“Voyage of vessels will resume until further notice based on the Pagasa (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) Gale Warning Advisory and improvement of weather and sea conditions,” the PCG said.