Published May 9, 2021, 2:37 PM
Speaker Lord Allan Velasco has sought a review of the eight-year-old policy making mandatory the suspension of maritime travel in areas placed under Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Number 1, or 36 hours before a weather disturbance occurs.
Velasco assailed the policy laid down in a memorandum circular issued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in 2013. He said the PCG has proven to be counterproductive and detrimental to the country’s shipping and maritime industry, and the general public.
“The PCG circular has resulted in stressful delays, unforeseen cancellations, decreased economic productivity and stalled shipping services,” Velasco pointed out.
Velasco wants review of maritime travel policy By CONSUELO MARQUEZ, GMA News
Published May 9, 2021 11:44am The policy on suspension of maritime travel must be reviewed to address issues of port congestion and stranded passengers, House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco said on Sunday. In a statement, Velasco said the policy, which suspends maritime travel in areas under Storm Signal No. 1 or 36 hours before a weather disturbance occurs in a locality, affects the country s shipping and maritime industry as well as public safety. “PCG s (Philippine Coast Guard) circular has resulted in stressful delays, unforeseen cancellations, decreased economic productivity and stalled shipping services,” Velasco said.
September 19, 2013 by rpweather
Usagi (Bagyong Odette) has rapidly intensified overnight and is now a Category 2 Typhoon. The center of the storm was last located approximately 580km northeast of Virac, Catanduanes or about 820km east northeast of Manila. According to JMA’s latest update, Usagi is packing maximum sustained winds of up to 140kph with gusts that could reach up to 195kph. Typhoon Usagi is currently moving westward at 10kph.
As of 5am this morning PAGASA, has raised Public Storm Warning Signal #1 for Batanes Group of Islands, Apayao, Isabela, Cagayan, and Calayan and Babuyan Group of Islands in anticipation of the approaching Typhoon. Stormy conditions are expected to begin affecting the said areas in the next 24 to 36 hours; high waves should also begin to affect the region today due to the massive circulation of Typhoon Usagi.