Travel gridlocked, panic buying rises as typhoon nears

Travel Gridlocked, Panic Buying Rises as Typhoon Nears

The arrival of typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) has paralyzed Central Visayas’ transportation system, with sea and air operations largely shut down and inter-provincial bus routes halted. Fears of supply shortages have led to panic buying in several areas, prompting officials to reassure residents of stable inventories.

Port Closures and Stranded Passengers

On Monday morning, November 3, 2025, the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) suspended all passenger travel across provincial ports due to expected storm surges and high waves.

“All sea trips were confirmed suspended,” reported the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) 7, noting that 477 passengers, 21 vessels, and 78 rolling cargoes were stranded throughout the region.

The weather also stopped 129 vessels and 12 motorbancas from departing their ports.

Flight Cancellations

Air travel was similarly affected as more than 50 flights at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) were canceled for safety reasons. According to MCIA data, 53 flights scheduled for Monday, including both arrivals and departures, were grounded.

Destinations impacted included Siargao, Surigao, Borongan, Tacloban, Butuan, Caticlan, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Manila. Another 34 flights—17 departures and 17 arrivals—were also canceled for Tuesday, November 4.

Local Response

Authorities have called for calm and urged residents to prepare prudently. Officials continue to monitor the storm’s progression as Tino moves closer to the central Philippines.

Author’s summary: Typhoon Tino halted Central Visayas transport, stranding travelers and triggering panic buying as authorities moved to ensure public safety and supply stability.

SunStar — 2025-11-03