Albay fishers warned vs. sailing amid gale warning

Albay fishers warned vs. sailing amid gale warning

LEGAZPI CITY – The Albay provincial disaster council has advised fishermen in coastal villages on the eastern seaboard of the province not to sail following a gale warning from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

PAGASA on Monday said that rough to high sea conditions due to bad weather are risky for all types of sea vessels. Mariners are advised to remain in port or take shelter until winds and waves subside.

In an advisory issued and signed by Albay Governor Edcel Greco Lagman, the public was also urged to continuously monitor weather bulletins from PAGASA and advisories from different local disaster authorities.

Affected by the no-sailing policy are the coastal towns of Tiwi, Malinao, Malilipot, Bacacay, Rapu-Rapu and the city of Tabaco.

Cedric Daep, chief of the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (Apsemo), said he also warned captains of large sea vessels plying the Tabaco-Catanduanes route to be on alert against big waves caused by strong winds prevailing there.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has taken proactive measures to mitigate the potential impact of Typhoon Betty on the vulnerable communities of the Bicol Region.

On Monday, Marygizelle Mesa, DSWD-5 spokesperson, said the DSWD-National Resource Operation Center (NROC) has delivered 10,500 family food packs to the designated warehouse in the region.

“These packs provide sustenance and nutrition for families that might be affected by the weather disturbance. Each pack contains a variety of essential food items, catering to individuals’ specific needs during crises,” Mesa said in a message. (PNA)