148 stranded in Masbate, Bicol ports due to Opong—PCG
The Philippine Coast Guard said Sunday that 148 persons remain stranded in seaports in Bicol after the effects of Severe Tropical Storm Opong and the Southwest Monsoon. In its Maritime Safety Advisory, the PCG said the 148 individuals are passengers, drivers and helpers who are in seven seaports: Masbate, Mobo, Mintac, Aroroy, San Pascual, Claveria and Cawayan. In a Super Radyo dzBB interview, PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Guiaro-Cayabyab said all of the passengers are in the island province Masbate which suffered the brunt of Opong. These included 62 rolling cargoes and 12 vessels in these ports. Also taking shelter are 40 vessels and four motorbancas. Guirao-Cayabyab said the suspension of sea travel has been lifted but some seafarers, particularly those in small craft, have decided to stay in port due to the strong waves.
