At 4 p.m. on February 5, authorities confirmed that 966 passengers were stranded across four major ports in Northern Mindanao as Typhoon Basyang battered the region with strong winds and heavy rains under Signal No. 2.
Philippine Coast Guard–Northern Mindanao Operations Officer Lt. Aiko Tocmo identified the affected ports as Cagayan de Oro, Ozamis, Tagoloan, and Holcim Port in Lugait, Misamis Oriental.
Thirteen vehicles were unable to continue their trips due to rough sea conditions, with nine of them seeking shelter at port facilities to safeguard crews and passengers.
The Coast Guard emphasized that the suspension of voyages was necessary to prevent accidents and ensure public safety, as waves and wind speeds posed serious risks to small and large vessels alike.
Tocmo also reiterated ongoing advisories for fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea until weather conditions improve, noting that the storm’s slow movement prolongs the danger.
Rescue and monitoring teams remain on standby at the ports to assist stranded travelers and provide updates. Authorities assured that once conditions stabilize, operations will resume in a controlled and safe manner.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of Northern Mindanao’s transport hubs during severe weather events and underscores the importance of strict adherence to maritime safety protocols.
