TRAVELERS are encouraged to “reconsider” their trips to destinations affected by heavy rain and strong winds due to the southwest monsoon or habagat enhanced by Tropical Storm “Dante.”
In an advisory on Tuesday night, July 22, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said it is closely monitoring the situation in the following regions:
* National Capital Region (NCR)
* Region I (Ilocos Region)
* Region II (Cagayan Valley)
* Region IV-A (Calabarzon)
* Region IV-B (Mimaropa)
* Region VI (Western Visayas)
“Due to the ongoing inclement weather, travelers planning trips to affected destinations are strongly encouraged to reconsider their travel plans and stay updated on possible service interruptions, site closures, or route changes,” it said.
The DOT reminded travelers that heavy rainfall and potential flooding are anticipated to significantly affect transportation services, including flights, ferries, and land transport.
Hotels, tour operators, and transport services, meanwhile, were urged to prepare for possible service interruptions and provide appropriate assistance to tourists.
“It is vital that guests are kept informed of any changes in services, including cancellations or rescheduling,” the DOT said.
Tourists in the following areas identified by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in its Tropical Cyclone Bulletin #1 issued at 5 p.m. Tuesday were advised to stay informed and be prepared for potential disruptions:
* (July 23) Ilocos Region, Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Metro Manila, Calabarzon Mimaropa, Visayas, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Camiguin, and Dinagat Islands
* (July 24) Ilocos Region, Abra, Benguet, Central Luzon, Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Visayas, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Camiguin, and Dinagat Islands
The DOT likewise warned tourists of the risk of rough seas over the following coastal waters identified by the state weather bureau:
* Seaboards of Batanes, Kalayaan Islands, Zambales, Bataan, Lubang Island, Occidental Mindoro, and Calamian Islands
* Seaboards of Babuyan Island, Ilocos Region, Cavite, Batangas, and Palawan
* Seaboards of Camarines Norte, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Catanduanes, Albay, Masbate, Quezon, and the northern seaboard of Camarines Sur
The DOT said it stands ready to assist affected tourists and tourism stakeholders.
Travelers in need of assistance may reach the DOT through the Tourist Assistance Call Center: 151-TOUR (8687), +63954 253 3215 or via email at touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph. (PNA)
