Stranded tourists from Sta. Cruz Island arrived at the Parinan area aboard motorized banca. (Photo courtesy of City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian-Hernandez) By: Verano Long ZAMBOANGA CITY — A group of tourists stranded for several hours on Sta. Cruz Island due to sudden inclement weather were safely brought back to the mainland late Thursday afternoon, according to Zamboanga City Tourism Officer Ms. Sarita Hernandez. In a statement, Ms. Hernandez expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the safe return of all guests. The delay was caused by heavy rains and strong waves, which temporarily made travel unsafe. “We are grateful to our island staff headed by Hairal Taup, ably assisted by Usman, who handled our guests well during the wait for the weather to clear,” said Hernandez. “Despite the situation, the guests remained calm and cooperative.” Hernandez said by past 5 p.m., with weather conditions gradually improving, the experienced boatmen — fondly called "bangkeros" — br...
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