Passengers were still stranded in the different ports of Cebu today as tropical cyclone wind signal no. 1 is still up in Central Cebu area and signal no. 2 is up in Northern Cebu as ‘Ursula’ approaches the Philippines.
According to the latest data today from the Philippine Coast Guard in Central Visayas (PCG-7), a total of 1,862 passengers were stranded. The bulk of which are in Pier 4 in Cebu City where most of the trips are bound for Eastern Visayas.
Lt. Jr. Michael John Encina, spokesman of PCG-7 told The Filipino Times that they are advising passengers to not push through with their travels this morning as most of the sea trips are canceled.
He also warned those motorbanca operators not to go against their warnings.
“Might as well huwag mag-venture out para lang naman sa safety nila,” he said in a phone interview.
On Monday evening, PCG-7 was able to rescue seven passengers and operator on board an unnamed motorbanca after they encountered engine trouble while on their way to Danao City from Consuelo Port in Camotes Island.
They were safely brought to shore at 7 p.m.
PCG-7 under Coast Guard Sub Station Danao has detained the operator and said motorbanca for the violation of PCG Memorandum Circular 02-13 or the Guidelines on Movement of Vessels during Heavy Weather.
