Boat operations suspended in Pagadian City

Fishing boats docked at the vicinity of Pagadian City Fish Port following Coast following Coast Guard warnings not to venture out. PHOTO BY LEAH AGONOY

PAGADIAN CITY – Despite not being directly hit by Typhoon “Ompong” (International name: “Mungkhat”), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Maritime Police here stopped sea vessels and small boats from going offshore as the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services (Pagasa) said the Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi would be affected by enhanced southwest monsoon and the trough extension of the typhoon.

PCG deputy commander Adonis Marzo told more than 100 fishing vessels and boat operators in Pagadian City and neighboring towns Thursday not to go offshore anymore because of the risks presented by the enhanced southwest monsoon.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council here targeted zero-casualty amid the upcoming stormy weather.

Marzo also warned those who would leave the port without clearance.

Pagadian City also convened its Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council as it expected heavy rains that could cause landslides and floods in some areas.

Rescue equipment also stood by the city hall complex in cases of possible forced evacuation, especially in the coastal areas, CDRRM Action Officer Haron Damada Jr. told the Inquirer.