Bicol: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Bicol has announced the suspension of sea travel for small vessels across Albay, Catanduanes, and Sorsogon provinces due to rough sea conditions. According to Philippines News Agency, PCG Commander Commodore Ivan Roldan indicated that advisories were issued by PCG stations in the affected areas in response to strong to gale-force winds from the northeast monsoon, known locally as "amihan," impacting the Bicol region. The PCG has placed 410 personnel, 13 land assets, and 16 floating assets on standby for potential evacuation, rescue, and response operations. In Albay, all watercraft with 250 gross tonnage and below operating along the eastern coastline, which includes Tiwi, Malinao, Tabaco City, Malilipot, Bacacay, Rapu-Rapu, Santo Domingo, Legazpi City, and Manito, have been suspended. Larger vessels have been advised to remain vigilant against large waves. Similarly, in Catanduanes, vessels of 250 gross tonnage and below, including fishing boats and other small wa tercraft, are prohibited from sea travel due to the risks posed by the prevailing sea conditions. Operators of the affected vessels have been instructed to stay in port or find safe harbor, while larger vessels are permitted to operate only if equipped adequately and under the command of experienced mariners. Vessel masters, boat captains, and ship owners/operators are urged to implement appropriate safety measures for life at sea. In Sorsogon, strong to gale-force winds are affecting the eastern coast, including the City of Sorsogon, Prieto Diaz, Gubat, Barcelona, Bulusan, Santa Magdalena, and Matnog. This has led to rough to very rough sea conditions, with wave heights reaching 2.8 to 4.5 meters. Consequently, all trips of vessels or watercraft with 250 gross tonnage and below in this area are suspended, while larger vessels are cautioned to navigate cautiously. 'We are continuously monitoring maritime activities 24/7 and are in close coordination with LGUs and other line agencies for possible emergency response,' Roldan stated.
