Stranded passengers from Tabaco port are evacuated by the local government in Tabaco City, Albay on December 24, 2016 after their vessels were prohibited from sailing ahead of typhoon Nock-Ten’s expected arrival. (File photo from AFP / Charism SAYAT)
MANILA, Philippines — A total of 6,338 passengers, truck drivers and cargo helpers were stranded in all ports nationwide on Sunday morning due to the effects of tropical storm Aghon, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
In its latest report, the agency said the stranded individuals were recorded from 12 midnight until 4 a.m.
“The PCG monitored 6,338 passengers, truck drivers, and cargo helpers, 26 vessels, 14 motorbancas, and 875 rolling cargoes stranded while 76 vessels and 21 motorbancas taking shelter in Northeastern Mindanao, Bicol, Eastern Visayas, and Southern Tagalog regions,” it wrote.
Broken down, 849 people were stranded in Nasipit Port, Northeastern Mindanao; 1,708 in Bicol ports; 1,607 in Eastern Visayas ports; and 2,913 in Southern Tagalog ports.
Due to the increased strength of Aghon, PCG temporarily suspended all trips to ensure public safety.
“Voyage of vessel will resume until further notice and upon improvement of weather and sea conditions,” the agency said in another statement.
As of 8 a.m., Pagasa said tropical storm Aghon maintained strength, moving within the vicinity of Dolores, Quezon.