Manila, Feb. 4 -- Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 is hoisted in parts of Surigao provinces as Tropical Depression Basyang maintained its strength, the weather bureau said Wednesday.

In its 11 a.m. update, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Basyang is packing maximum sustained winds of 55 km per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 70 kph.

It was last tracked 735 km. east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur moving southwest at 15 kph.

Surigao del Sur and the eastern portion of Surigao del Norte (Claver, Gigaquit, Bacuag), including Siargao-Bucas Grande Islands are under TCWS No. 1 and will experience strong winds.

The surge of the northeast monsoon will also bring st...