'Kristine' leaves over 8,000 passengers stranded at ports nationwide

MANILA, Philippines — More than 8,000 passengers were stranded at ports nationwide on Thursday morning, October 24, due to the rough maritime conditions caused by Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine” (international name: Trami).

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that a total of 8,786 individuals, including truck drivers and cargo helpers, remained stuck at 126 ports from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. on October 24. 

Alongside this, 142 vessels, 65 motorbancas, and 2,275 rolling cargoes are also stranded. Meanwhile, 351 vessels and 327 motorbancas are taking shelter.

The number of stranded individuals nearly doubled the reported total of 5,130 between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23.

According to PCG data, Bicol, Eastern Visayas and Northeastern Mindanao are the most heavily affected regions in the country. 

Other regions also facing challenges in seeking safety from turbulent waters include:

Meanwhile, the Northwestern and Northeastern regions of Luzon did not report any stranded passengers, but a total of 14 vessels and 10 motorbancas have sought shelter.

The state weather bureau PAGASA has issued Signal No. 3 and Signal No. 2 for several provinces in Luzon due to Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, while areas in the Visayas are under Signal No. 1 as of 11 a.m. on Thursday.

Sea travel continues to be hazardous for vessels, and mariners are urged to seek shelter or stay in port until winds and waves diminish.

Kristine is expected to weaken slightly as it crosses Northern Luzon due to land interaction and may leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Friday, October 25.