Sea Travel Halted in Aurora Due to Tropical Storm Maymay

SAN ANTONIO, Zambales — Authorities on Wednesday temporarily suspended the operation of small seacraft in Aurora province as Tropical Storm Maymay continued to generate rough sea conditions off the province’s coast. According to the provincial government of Aurora, the suspension covers all motor bancas and other small vessels operating within the jurisdiction of the Coast Guard. Maymay, which is moving northwest over the Philippine Sea, is affecting parts of northern and central Luzon, including Aurora. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has stated that the tropical storm is unlikely to intensify further but warned of strong winds and heavy rains. The suspension of sea travel could have short-term economic implications, particularly for coastal communities reliant on fishing and residents who use sea transport for inter-island travel. However, ensuring the safety of crew and passengers remains the top priority, with authorities deferring resumption of operations until sea conditions improve. Aurora province, located on the eastern coast facing the Pacific Ocean, is one of the regions prone to typhoons and tropical depressions. Similar weather phenomena have caused prolonged suspensions of sea travel in the past, impacting the local economy. The Coast Guard will continue to monitor sea conditions and will make a decision to resume operations as soon as it is deemed safe.