Several ferry trips serving Leyte were suspended Wednesday after Tropical Storm Maymay generated rough sea conditions across parts of Eastern Visayas, disrupting passenger travel and cargo movement while authorities urged the public to prioritize safety.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ordered the temporary suspension of sea travel on affected routes after wave heights and strong winds associated with the storm made sailing unsafe.
Among the affected services were ferry operations linking Leyte to neighboring islands, leaving hundreds of passengers and transport operators waiting for improved weather before voyages could resume.
The suspensions affected one of Leyte's primary modes of inter-island transportation, particularly for residents traveling for work, education, medical appointments, and trade.
Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels also play a vital role in transporting agricultural products, construction materials, and commercial goods to and from the province.
Port authorities advised passengers to coordinate directly with shipping companies regarding updated sailing schedules and possible rebooking arrangements.
Travelers were also encouraged to monitor official advisories before heading to ports, as weather conditions may change rapidly.
The state weather bureau, PAGASA, warned that Tropical Storm Maymay continued to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing strong winds and rough to very rough seas over several coastal areas, including parts of Eastern Visayas.
Small sea vessels were advised against venturing into affected waters due to hazardous conditions.
For Leyte, ferry disruptions have become a recurring challenge during the rainy season, underscoring the province's reliance on maritime transport.
The province serves as a strategic transport hub connecting Samar, Cebu, Mindanao, and other parts of the Visayas through an extensive RoRo network.
Transport analysts note that while suspensions may inconvenience travelers and temporarily affect the movement of goods, maritime authorities generally impose travel restrictions as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of sea accidents during adverse weather.
The PCG noted that passenger safety remains the top priority and said voyages would only resume once sea conditions return to safe operating levels.
Shipping operators likewise assured affected passengers that services would restart immediately after authorities lift the suspension.
As of this writing, local disaster management offices in Leyte continued monitoring weather developments while coordinating with the Coast Guard and port operators for further advisories.
Residents living in coastal communities were also reminded to remain alert for possible changes in weather and sea conditions as Tropical Storm Maymay moves across Philippine waters.
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