Travel gridlocked, panic buying rises as typhoon nears

Travel Disruption as Typhoon Tino Approaches

The approach of typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) has nearly paralyzed Central Visayas' transportation system, with both sea and air travel suspended and provincial bus services halted. The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) closed all ports and terminals to passengers on Monday morning, November 3, 2025, due to the expected storm surge and strong waves.

Port Closures and Stranded Passengers

All sea trips were suspended, according to reports from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) 7. A total of 477 passengers, 21 vessels, and 78 rolling cargoes were stranded at Central Visayas ports as of midnight. Additionally, 129 vessels and 12 motorbancas were unable to sail due to adverse weather conditions.

Airport Flight Cancellations

Over 50 flights at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) were canceled as a preventive measure. On Monday, 53 flights, including departures and arrivals, were canceled. The affected routes included Siargao, Surigao, Borongan, Tacloban, Butuan, Caticlan, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Manila.

Upcoming Flight Disruptions

An additional 34 flights, split evenly between departures and arrivals, scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, are also expected to be canceled.

"Fear of shortages is driving panic buying, but local officials have issued assurances about supply stability."

Local authorities are encouraging calm by assuring the public that essential supplies will remain stable despite the disruptions.

Author's Summary

Typhoon Tino’s imminent arrival has halted transport in Central Visayas, causing stranded travelers and canceled flights amid worries over supply shortages, though officials assure stability.

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SunStar SunStar — 2025-11-03