• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has temporarily suspended on May 31 island-hopping tours and other water-related activities in southern Negros as adverse weather conditions continue to affect the area.
In a sea travel advisory issued on Sunday, the Coast Guard Station Southern Negros Occidental said the suspension was implemented due to the effects of the southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat.
Although Typhoon Domeng has already exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that the weather disturbance continues to enhance the southwest monsoon.
PAGASA warned that the intensified habagat could bring occasional moderate to heavy rains and strong to gale-force winds over the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas.
The Coast Guard also advised sea travelers, coastal residents, and fisherfolk to refrain from venturing out to sea to avoid possible accidents and ensure public safety amid rough sea conditions.
PCG said the suspension will remain in effect until weather and sea conditions improve.*
