Over 869 stranded due to Severe Tropical Storm Wipha

Over 869 passengers, truck drivers, and cargo helpers were stranded across 46 ports nationwide due to Severe Tropical Storm Wipha (formerly Crising) on Saturday.

Eastern Visayas recorded the highest number of stranded individuals with 720 people, while Western Visayas reported 54 individuals. Southwestern Mindanao saw five passengers, and Southern Visayas had four individuals, 12 vessels, and four motor bancas stranded in nine different ports.

In addition to the individuals, 428 rolling cargoes, 46 vessels, and seven motor bancas are also affected by cancelled sea voyages. The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) reported that several scheduled maritime trips have been canceled due to Wipha under the no sail policy issued by the PCG.

The storm intensified into a severe tropical storm as it exited the Philippine area of responsibility on Saturday morning, with its center located 345 kilometers west of Itbayat, Batanes. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has placed northern Luzon under tropical cyclone wind signals.

The PCG remains on high alert with over 400 personnel and assets ready for emergencies as Wipha continues to impact various regions.