Travel Gridlocked, Panic Buying Rises as Typhoon Nears
The approach of Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) has nearly paralyzed Central Visayas' transportation system, with sea and air travel suspended and most provincial bus operations halted. Rising anxiety over possible shortages has fueled panic buying, leading local officials to offer assurances that supplies remain stable.
Port Closures and Stranded Travelers
On the morning of November 3, 2025, the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) suspended all passenger services across the province’s ports and terminals in anticipation of the storm surge and rough waves.
According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Region 7, a total of 477 passengers and 21 vessels carrying 78 rolling cargoes were stranded in Central Visayas ports as of midnight. Severe weather also kept 129 vessels and 12 motorbancas docked, unable to depart.
Airport Cancellations
Air travel was also heavily disrupted. More than 50 flights at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) were canceled as a safety measure. Official data indicated 53 total cancellations, covering both arrivals and departures.
Affected routes included multiple destinations across the Visayas and Mindanao regions, such as Siargao, Surigao, Borongan, Tacloban, Butuan, Caticlan, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Manila.
Upcoming Cancellations
MCIA officials reported an additional 34 flights canceled for Tuesday, November 4, including 17 departures and 17 arrivals, as authorities continued to monitor Typhoon Tino’s path.
“Local officials urge residents to remain calm and avoid panic buying, assuring that essential goods and supplies are steady despite travel disruptions.”
Author’s Summary
Transport in Central Visayas came to a halt as Typhoon Tino approached, forcing flight and port closures and triggering widespread precautionary panic buying.