BALER, Aurora – The Coast Guard Station (CGS) Aurora has temporarily suspended the operations of small vessels within its area of responsibility as a precautionary measure against the threats posed by Super Typhoon Bavi and rough sea conditions.
In a Sea Travel Advisory (CGSAu-0726-001) issued Wednesday, the CGS Aurora said the suspension covers all small watercraft, including motor bancas and other vessels, regardless of type or tonnage.
The advisory was issued following Tropical Cyclone Bulletin No. 2 of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), which placed Super Typhoon Bavi about 1,420 kilometers east of Northern Luzon as of Wednesday morning. The cyclone was packing maximum sustained winds of 185 kph near the center, gustiness of up to 230 kph, and was moving westward at 25 kph.
The Coast Guard said sea conditions within Aurora’s waters have become hazardous, with waves reaching approximately 3.5 meters, prompting the temporary suspension of sea travel to ensure the safety of fishermen, boat operators, and the riding public.
The measure was implemented in accordance with existing Philippine Coast Guard memorandum circulars governing vessel movement during severe weather conditions.
The CGS Aurora said vessels seeking shelter may still proceed after securing written clearance from the Coast Guard. However, vessels entering ports for sheltering purposes will not be allowed to load or unload passengers and cargo.
Authorities urged fishermen, boat operators, and other maritime stakeholders to strictly observe the sea travel suspension and continue monitoring the latest advisories from PAGASA and the Philippine Coast Guard as Super Typhoon Bavi continues to move toward the Philippine Area of Responsibility. (Jason de Asis)