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Bunkering operations remain closed in Manila and nearby ports as the strongest storm to hit the Philippines over the past four years made landfall today in the north of the country.

The northern provinces of Isabela and Cagayan have been on the highest storm alert and are braced for heavy damage as 'super typhoon' Megi made landfall this morning, lashing the area with heavy rains and winds of more than 225 km/hour (140 mph).

According to news agency reports Megi hit north-eastern Isabela at approximately 11:25 local time.

Bunkering operations were halted yesterday at the port of Manila and other ports in the north. According to Lieutenant Commander Armando Balilo, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Public Information Officer and deputy chief of staff for community relations, a total 55 vessels have been grounded due to typhoon restrictions.

Balilo said that 792 passengers were currently stranded in the port of Manila since the region was placed under Public Storm Warning Signal Number 1 on Sunday evening.

Balilo also issued a warning that the authorities would not hesitate to revoke the skipper's license and the vessel's franchise of those ships that attempted to sail despite the current sailing restrictions.