Transportation and Classes Halted in Dinagat Islands Amid Tropical Depression Verbena

Authorities in the Caraga region have suspended most sea travel to and from the Dinagat Islands and called off classes across several towns due to the approach of Tropical Depression Verbena. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) issued restrictions on November 24 as the storm drew closer, following a recent typhoon that impacted the area in early November.

The PCG halted vessel operations between Dinagat Islands and parts of Mindanao under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1, which was raised by PAGASA at 5 a.m. travel is now limited to roll-on/roll-off vessels on the main supply route between Dinagat Islands and Surigao City, subject to stringent conditions. These include a ban on passengers other than cargo drivers, prohibition of dangerous goods, a minimum vessel size of 300 gross tons, travel restricted to daylight hours, and departures within 12 hours of the warning. Additional requirements demand calm to moderate seas, clear visibility, negligible rainfall, and cargo loads not exceeding 75% capacity.

Local governments responded by suspending classes to safeguard residents. San Jose, Loreto, and Libjo municipalities issued executive orders canceling classes at all levels due to persistent heavy rains and the risk of flooding and landslides. In Surigao del Norte, Governor Lyndon Barbers authorized selective class suspensions in Siargao and Bucas Grande islands, leaving implementation decisions to local officials.

As of 10 a.m., Verbena was situated approximately 205 kilometers east-southeast of Surigao City, moving westward at 15 kilometers per hour after slowing down from 30 kph earlier. The depression carries maximum sustained winds of 45 kph with gusts up to 55 kph. Forecasts indicate that Verbena could make landfall in the Caraga region on Monday before advancing through the Visayas and northern Palawan on Tuesday and entering the West Philippine Sea by Wednesday.

The Coast Guard emphasized the need for vessels authorized to sail to maintain caution and stated that normal operations will resume only when weather and sea conditions have improved.