MANILA – Tropical Depression Wilma’s slow but steady approach has stranded over 8,600 passengers across 87 ports in multiple regions, as rough seas and gale-force gusts forced vessels to seek shelter, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported on Saturday, December 6, 2025. The disruptions, affecting key routes in the Visayas and Mindanao, come just hours before the depression’s projected landfall in Eastern or Northern Samar, amplifying holiday travel woes for families eyeing Christmas reunions.
Stranding Details and Affected Areas
From 4 a.m. to 8 a.m., a total of 8,622 passengers were left high and dry, with 126 vessels, 38 motorbancas, and 2,628 rolling cargoes unable to depart. The PCG’s 10 a.m. maritime advisory pinpointed hotspots in Southern Tagalog, Northeastern Mindanao, Northern Mindanao, Southern Visayas, Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Central Visayas, and Western Visayas. Meanwhile, 161 vessels and 101 motorbancas hunkered down in safe harbors, dodging waves whipped up by Wilma’s 45 kph sustained winds and 55 kph gusts.
PAGASA’s 11 a.m. bulletin confirmed the depression’s position over the coastal waters of Sulat, Eastern Samar, creeping westward at 15 kph. Landfall is eyed within the day over Eastern or Northern Samar, with the system expected to weaken into a low-pressure area over the West Philippine Sea by Monday, trailing heavy rains in its wake.
Government Response and Travel Disruptions
PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela urged stranded travelers to stay patient and safe, assuring that operations would resume once conditions improve. “We are coordinating with local governments and port authorities to provide food, water, and temporary accommodations,” Tarriela said. The Coast Guard also advised small craft operators to remain docked, citing risks from 2-4 meter high waves in eastern seaboards.
For holiday planners, the stranding spells delays: Key routes like Cebu to Leyte and Samar to Bicol are hardest hit, with over 3,000 affected in Eastern Visayas alone. Airlines report minor upticks in bookings, but PAGASA’s forecast of 100-200 mm rains in signal areas could prolong port closures into Sunday.
As Simbang Gabi dawns and families fret over missed flights, Wilma’s watery welcome is a stark reminder: In the archipelago’s stormy season, safety trumps speed. Travelers, check PCG advisories and pack patience – the ports will clear, but the rains won’t rush.
Stranded Passenger Breakdown by Region (Partial):
| Region | Passengers | Vessels Sheltered |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Visayas | 3,000+ | 45 |
| Bicol | 1,500+ | 32 |
| Central Visayas | 1,200+ | 28 |
| Southern Tagalog | 1,000+ | 25 |