BUTUAN CITY – Sea travel involving small vessels has been temporarily halted in Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, and Siargao Island as strong monsoon winds continue to generate dangerous sea conditions.
The Philippine Coast Guard, through the Coast Guard Station Surigao del Norte, announced that boats and watercraft with a tonnage of 250 and below are not permitted to sail starting Saturday morning.
The advisory cited gale-force winds linked to the northeast monsoon, which continue to affect the eastern coastal areas of both the Visayas and Mindanao.
Weather forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warn of overcast skies, rainfall, and turbulent seas, with wave heights possibly reaching between 2.8 and 4.5 meters.
Officials said the measure is consistent with Memorandum Circular No. 03-01 issued in February 2001, which regulates vessel movement when local weather bulletins are unavailable.
The Coast Guard emphasized that the suspension is a preventive step aimed at safeguarding passengers, crew, and maritime assets during unfavorable weather.
Coast Guard stations in Dinagat Islands and Siargao issued similar notices.
Meanwhile, ship masters whose vessels are cleared to sail were urged to remain vigilant and observe strict safety precautions while traveling in waters affected by unstable weather and rough seas.
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