LSIs still sleep outside Manila North Port Terminal while awaiting for trip back home

Several locally stranded individuals (LSIs) were reported to be still sleeping outside the Manila North Port Terminal while waiting for a trip back to their respective hometowns.

According to Jonathan Andal’s report on GMA News’ “Unang Balita” on Monday, the LSIs, all bound for Zamboanga, were supposed to board the ship on Sunday night but their trip was canceled. The trip was moved to Wednesday.

The LSIs then decided to pitch makeshift tents outside the terminal because they have no more place to go due to lack of money.

However, their makeshift shelter was drenched by the heavy rain.

“Mga tulugan namin (nababasa) na sa daloy ng tubig. Nabasa talaga,” Nhursida Waradi, one of the LSIs, said.

Edgar Cangmaong, meanwhile, asked the government for shelter while they wait for their trips back to their provinces.

“Mabigyan naman kami ng medyo ayos-ayos na kwan eh ‘pag nauulan ‘yong mga sapin na karton, naglulutangan na. Pati basura,” Cangmaong said.

He added he asked the guards at the terminal if they can temporarily stay inside amid the rain, but they were prohibited.

“Sabi ko baka puwede naman diyan sa tabi at ‘pag tila ng ulan at wala ng baha doon, baka puwede akong bumalik. Ang sabi ‘bawal ho ‘yan, bawal,’” Cangmaong said.

Some LSIs also fear that they might get sick due to the rain and be banned from boarding their trips.

“Eh wala na kaming choice ‘pag sabihing COVID kasi wala na nandoon na, may ubo ka na,” Abdul Suhud Timol said.

GMA News reached out to the Philippine Ports Authority and 2GO but they have yet to respond as of posting time. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/RSJ, GMA News