QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) reported that 140 tourists remain stranded in Batanes, the Philippines’ northernmost province, following disruptions caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami), with all expected to depart from Basco airport on Sunday, October 27.
The DOT also reported the number has significantly decreased from 371 earlier this week, as many tourists have already managed to leave the area. The remaining visitors are scheduled to depart Basco, the provincial capital, starting Sunday.
“All other stranded tourists from previously reported areas were able to travel onwards to their respective destinations,” the DOT said in a statement.
The department maintains close coordination with national agencies, local governments, and disaster management councils to ensure tourist safety. Officials have urged visitors to monitor weather updates from the national weather bureau.
The DOT has established a tourist assistance hotline for those needing help, which can be reached at 0995-8355155 or via email at [email protected].
Batanes, an archipelagic province famous for its rugged landscapes and heritage sites, frequently experiences travel disruptions during severe weather conditions due to its remote location. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
