Winds, waves slam coast as Henry pummels Batanes

Severe rains and strong waves were felt in Batanes due to Typhoon Henry, according to Ivy Hernando’s “24 Oras” report on Friday.

In Mahatao town, several boats were docked and tied to prevent them form being swept away by the rough waters.

As fishing was temporarily prohibited, fishermen said they have no earnings for the day.

“Pag ganitong masama ang panahon, sa construction o sa bukid pero pag maganda naman ang panahon dyan sa Mahatao, madali kasi ang pera sa dagat,” fisherman Anthony Andri said.

A no sailing policy was also implemented in Sabtang and Itbayat islands.

“Wala pa naman ine-evacuate, wala pa naman nire-report na nasirang bahay o kung anong ano ari-arian. So far okay pa ang Batanes pero nanatili kaming handa,” Justinne Socito, Batanes public information officer, said.

Classes in all public and private schools in Batanes were also suspended.

Several residents have voluntarily evacuated as preventive measure due to the possible onslaught of the typhoon.

Signal Number 2 remains hoisted over Batanes as Typhoon Henry continues to weaken while moving northwestward over Philippine waters, PAGASA said Friday.

Meanwhile, Signal number 1 is still up over the Babuyan Islands and the northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan.—Richa Noriega/LDF, GMA News