Bicol region: At least 3,000 passengers were stranded in various ports across the Bicol Region due to Tropical Storm Ramil, known internationally as Fengshen, the Philippine Coast Guard in Bicol (PCG-5) reported.

According to Philippines News Agency, PCG-5 Commander Commodore Ivan Roldan stated that 3,142 passengers, along with 1,004 rolling cargo units and six roll-on/roll-off ships, were stranded at the ports of Pioduran and Tabaco in Albay; Mobo in Masbate province; Pasacao in Camarines Sur; and Matnog, Pilar, and Castilla in Sorsogon province.

Roldan emphasized that PCG personnel at all ports in the region are on heightened alert to respond immediately to any emergencies caused by the weather disturbance. All essential first aid, rescue, and communication equipment are fully operational and ready for use. Sea travel is suspended across the six provinces in the region.

The PCG is actively assisting and monitoring the stranded passengers in these areas. “The PCG stations are coordinating with shipping companies, local governments, and other agencies to provide necessary assistance and information to the public,” Roldan noted.

The Deployable Response Groups of the Coast Guard District Bicol, along with Coast Guard Stations and Sub-stations, are prepared to respond to the typhoon’s effects. Roldan mentioned that PCG personnel have assisted in the preemptive evacuation of 896 individuals, or 281 families, from 20 barangays.

“In total, we have 469 personnel on standby, nine land assets, and 17 floating assets ready to aid our fellow Bicolanos,” Roldan added. The DRG team has brought essential equipment for search and rescue operations, including life vests, communication devices, and ropes.

“These teams serve as additional resources to provide support and assistance to those in need across various provinces in the Bicol Region,” Roldan concluded.