By Xander Ledesma
Maritime travel to and from Bantayan Island was suspended on Saturday morning as Super Typhoon Pepito approached northern Cebu, leaving numerous travelers stranded at Hagnaya Port.
The suspension followed the issuance of Storm Signal No. 1 for the region, including Bantayan Island, by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The typhoon, packing sustained winds of up to 185 kilometers per hour and gusts of 230 km/h, prompted precautionary measures to ensure the safety of passengers and ferry crews.
Ferry services at Hagnaya Port, a critical transportation hub for Bantayan Island, were halted, disrupting plans for both tourists and residents. The port, typically bustling on weekends, became a site of uncertainty as travelers awaited updates on weather conditions and travel resumptions.
Port officials, led by manager Raquel Alforque, assured stranded passengers that ferry operations would resume once conditions were deemed safe. The suspension of services not only affected tourists but also island residents who rely on ferries for essential goods, healthcare, and work.
Bantayan Island, located roughly 30 kilometers north of Cebu’s mainland, is a prominent tourist destination known for its pristine beaches and tranquil environment. However, its reliance on ferry transport underscores the impact of service interruptions during severe weather events, particularly for the local community’s daily needs.
As Super Typhoon Pepito continued its approach, authorities urged residents and travelers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety while awaiting further updates on maritime operations.