Heavy Rains Prompt Suspension of Sea Travel and Classes in Caraga Region and Davao

 BUTUAN CITY – Ongoing heavy rains caused by the trough of a low-pressure area (LPA) have led authorities and local government units (LGUs) in the Caraga region to suspend sea travel and school classes at all levels.

As of Wednesday morning, sea travel for vessels with gross tonnages below 150, operating routes from Surigao del Norte to Dinagat Islands and other areas, remains suspended.

Similarly, sea travel for vessels with tonnages below 250 to Siargao Island is also on hold due to gale-force winds associated with the northeast monsoon.

This decision comes as most LGUs in Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Sur have already suspended classes in both public and private schools since Tuesday due to heavy rainfall.

San Miguel Mayor Michael Corilla reported an increase in water levels with a red warning signal in the riverine system of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, causing significant flooding in some barangays. Close monitoring activities are underway, especially in river systems, as water levels started rising since Tuesday.

Residents in low-lying areas prone to flooding and landslides in Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Sur are advised to remain vigilant and be prepared for evacuation.

DAVAO REGION SUSPENDS WORK, CLASSES

Meanwhile, various LGUs in the Davao region have also suspended classes and work due to the trough affecting Northern and Southern Mindanao.

The provinces of Davao del Norte and Davao Occidental issued separate orders declaring the suspension of classes and work early Wednesday for the safety of residents.

In Davao City, Mayor Sebastian Duterte declared the suspension of classes in all levels of public and private schools, implementing a work-from-home (WFH) arrangement in all national and local government offices, including government-owned and controlled corporations. The order excludes offices performing safety and security, health and social services, and disaster and emergency response services.

In Davao Oriental, at least 10 municipalities and Mati City collectively suspended classes and government and private offices. The towns include Banaybanay, Lupon, San Isidro, Governor Generoso, Tarragona, Manay, Caraga, Banganga, Cateel, and Boston.

In Davao del Sur, municipalities that declared the suspension of both work and classes include Matanao, Malalag, Bansalan, Sulop, Magsaysay, Sta. Cruz, Padada, Kiblawan, and Hagonoy. Digos City Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas also ordered a WFH arrangement in all local and national government offices. (PNA)