LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 25 -- The Office of Civil Defense in Bicol reported on Tuesday that over 858 passengers and 402 cargo trucks are stranded in various ports of the Bicol Region due to the effects of Tropical Depression Verbena.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) suspended sea travel to and from Masbate province since Monday, as the mainland is under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1.

In a statement, PCG-Bicol Commander Commodore Ivan Roldan said that they have activated their Deployable Response Groups, along with stations and substations across the region, to ensure readiness for emergencies.

A total of 537 personnel, 10 land assets and 20 floating assets are on standby for possible deployment in evacuation, rescue and response operat...