24 MAY 2024, MANILA — The Philippine Ports Authority is now on high alert status as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) raises Signal No. 1 in four areas as Tropical Depression Aghon nears the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
According to the state bureau as of Friday this morning, May 24, 2024, among the areas greatly affected are Siargao Island, Dinagat Islands, Eastern Samar, and Bucas Grande Islands due to the low-pressure area in the east of Surigao del Sur which has intensified to a Tropical Depression Aghon. PAGASA said these areas may experience intermittent rains or winds of 39 to 61 km/h within the next 36 hours.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago reminded all the Port Management Offices (PMO) under PPA to follow the protocols and the "No Sail Zone Policy" issued by the Philippine Coastguard.
"We have directed all the PMOs to stay alert and to prioritize the safety of the passengers and the employees of the ports affected by TD Aghon" said PPA GM Santiago.
Port Management Office of Surigao is currently experiencing strong winds thus there are now limited operations for large ferries and Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) vessels while the Philippine Coast Guard Stations of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands has TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED all voyages of vessels/watercrafts plying from mainland Surigao del Norte to the Province of Dinagat Islands and the Siargao/Bucas Grande group of islands.
In PMO Negros Oriental/ Siquijor, all ports are in normal operations but currently experiencing light rains. There are no cancellations of vessel schedules as of this hour but all terminals were instructed to ensure passenger comfort & safety.
While PMO Masbate remains with cancelled trips:
• Mintac - Calbayog - Cebu, v.v. MV Masbate City
• Cawayan - Pulambato, Bogo, v.v. MV Palanas Star
• Mobo - Calbayog - Cebu, v.v. MV Pio V. Corpuz Star
• Mobo - Pio Duran, v.v. MV Cataingan Star
The PPA prioritizes passenger safety and urges the public to postpone non-essential travel to affected areas as the agency continues to monitor the situation and provide updates.
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