The Department of Tourism (DOT) re-issued a strong advisory for both domestic and international tourists in light of the ongoing effects of Tropical Storm “Crising” (international name: Wipha). The DOT urges all travelers to exercise extreme vigilance and prioritize safety by checking with their transport providers for updated schedules on flights and ferry services before commencing any travel plans.
Tourism-related establishments across the affected regions are also enjoined to provide timely updates and comprehensive support to their guests.
Travelers and stakeholders are further advised to consistently monitor official bulletins from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and other relevant government agencies for the latest safety updates and weather advisories.
Widespread moderate to heavy rainfall is anticipated across Metro Manila, parts of Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Ilocos Region, Cordillera, Bicol Region, and portions of the Visayas. This rainfall may lead to flooding, landslides, and hazardous sea conditions. Elevated and mountainous areas are particularly susceptible to more intense rainfall, and the impact may be exacerbated in areas already saturated by previous rainfall.
The DOT, through its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee (DRRMCom), remains on heightened alert, diligently monitoring ground situations in all affected areas.
As of situational reports from DOT Regional Offices on July 21, 2025, at 12:00 NN, no casualties or injuries among travelers have been reported. However, the storm has caused notable disruptions, particularly in Region IV-B (MIMAROPA) and Region II (Cagayan Valley and Batanes), with instances of stranded tourists and canceled transport services.
In MIMAROPA, the DOT Regional Office confirmed the temporary suspension of sea travel and numerous flight cancellations affecting multiple routes. A total of 1,373 tourists were reported stranded in Palawan, with an additional two in Occidental Mindoro. The Regional Office has activated an online monitoring system for stranded tourists and is coordinating closely with Local Government Units (LGUs), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and concerned tourism stakeholders to provide immediate assistance on the ground.
In Region II, 34 tourists were initially reported stranded in Batanes on July 18, 2025. Flight services in the area have gradually resumed as of July 20, 2025.
The DOT remains in close coordination with its Regional Offices and national and local government partners to safeguard the welfare, safety, and comfort of all travelers during this challenging period.
