Boat trips to Olango cancelled due to big waves

CEBU, Philippines — Operators of motorized boats travelling to and from Olango Island decided to suspend their trips yesterday because of big waves brought by strong winds, stranding at least 100 passengers in Angasil Wharf in Barangay Mactan and Buot Wharf in Barangay Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City.

"Without advice sa Coast Guard, ni-volunteer sila (og hunong sa ilaha operation) kay kusog gyud ang bawd," according to Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer Andy  Berame.

Around 2 -3 pump boat operators have suspended operations while sea conditions remain rough.

The gale warning given by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) last Friday afternoon and disseminated by the Coast Guard disseminated was lifted around 9:30 a.m. yesterday, but the operators still decided to suspend their trips.

Berame added that almost 100 passengers had been stranded since Friday night at the Angasil Wharf in Barangay, Mactan and in Buot Wharf in Barangay Punta Engaño.

Most of the passengers reportedly slept in the waiting area of the wharf while waiting for the arrival of the pump boats.

"Ganiha (Saturday morning), 80 (passengers) sa Angasil wharf, around 20 ganiha sa Buot wharf," Berame said.

Berama had earlier assured that the passengers will be transported to Olango Island once boat trips have resumed.

"Anytime mo resume ang biyahe, mahakot ra sila'g balik pauli. (Makauli sila) within the day, kung ma-linaw-linaw na gamay," Berame said.

However, as of 5 p.m. yesterday, Berame told The FREEMAN that all passengers are stranded in the wharf following the new gale warning from PAGASA.

"Gi-impose balik ang gale warning. As of now, 23 kabuok ang na stranded sa Angasil wharf. Tungod ani, magtukod ta og tent diri sa wharf ug ang barangay mo-distribute og pagkaon, mga hot meals para nila," Berame said.

As of this writing, Berame said he has yet to gather information about the situation in Buot Wharf. (FREEMAN)