By CESAR JOLITO III

Tropical Storm “Basyang” has disrupted maritime travel across the Negros Island Region (NIR), leaving a total of 759 passengers, drivers and helpers stranded in various seaports yesterday.

The Coast Guard District in Southern Visayas (CGDSV) reported that the highest number of stranded individuals was recorded in northern Negros Occidental with 490 passengers, followed by 175 in Siquijor and 94 in Negros Oriental.

Maritime operations were also significantly affected, with 27 vessels and 252 rolling cargoes unable to depart due to adverse sea conditions.

Of the total, 20 vessels were stranded in Negros Occidental, six in Negros Oriental and one in Siquijor, while 11 other vessels sought shelter as weather conditions worsened.

Sea travel in both northern and southern Negros Occidental was temporarily suspended after the province was placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1, as strong winds and rough seas posed risks to navigation.

In response, the CGDSV raised its alert status and activated its deployable response group to ensure readiness for emergency operations related to the storm.

All response teams have been placed on standby and are equipped with essential gear for immediate deployment if needed.

CGDSV reiterated its advisory to the riding public, coastal residents and fisherfolk to avoid venturing out to sea during the storm to prevent accidents and ensure public safety as “Basyang” continues to affect the region./CJ, WDJ