BY MAE SINGUAY
BACOLOD City – Stormy weather has led to the suspension of government office operations, school classes, and vessel trips in Negros Occidental.
Yesterday, Alberto Nellas, the acting provincial administrator, issued a memorandum stating that work in all provincial government offices would be suspended from noon onwards, although essential services such as hospitals and emergency personnel will continue to operate.
Unlike the provincial areas, Bacolod City Government Center remains operational as it is not covered by the provincial memorandum due to its status as a highly urbanized city.
Acting Mayor El Cid Familiaran noted that the city could not declare a similar suspension because it operates under a different set of guidelines and that the provincial offices affected are located outside the city limits, affecting employees who commute.
Twelve 12 local government units in Negros Occidental have also suspended classes for the day. These include Don Salvador Benedicto, E.B. Magalona, Pulupandan, San Carlos City, Hinobaan, Talisay City, Victorias City, Bacolod City, Isabela, Murcia, Silay City, and Valladolid.
Familiaran said decisions regarding class suspensions are made based on the speed of winds, the volume of rainfall, and coastal conditions, following Department of Education Order No. 37.
Maritime travel has been notably affected, with Commander Jansen Benjamin of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-Northern Negros Occidental issuing a temporary suspension of all sea trips from Bacolod to Manila.
The suspension will be reviewed once weather conditions improve, as determined by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
Despite these widespread disruptions, Frank Carbon, an operator for Weesam Express, confirmed that fast ferry services between Bacolod and Iloilo continue unaffected, citing the absence of a storm signal in Region 6.
The PCG advises sea travelers and fishermen to avoid water-related activities during the storm to prevent any incidents./PN