Katipunan Avenue lane blocks after billboard collapse
MANILA, Philippines — Several lanes and most of the sidewalk along a stretch of Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City were disrupted when a utility pole and a large billboard collapsed due to severe weather on Saturday morning, local authorities said. The incident caused significant traffic delays near Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU).
The northbound lane near ADMU was shut down after a utility pole fell on several vehicles around 11:20 a.m., officials reported. At the same time, the southbound lane was blocked when a massive billboard toppled onto two cars under strong winds.
“Motorists are advised to take alternative routes,” the agency said in Filipino, urging commuters to avoid the affected area.
Traffic management and public safety efforts
Authorities assured the public that traffic enforcers were actively managing the situation to restore order and clear the debris. Meanwhile, pedestrians were also warned to stay clear of the damaged sidewalk section for their safety.
These road disruptions coincided with an orange rainfall warning raised over Metro Manila by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) on Saturday afternoon.
Weather conditions contributing to hazards
The heavy rains and strong winds were caused by Severe Tropical Storm Crising (international name: Wipha) combined with the southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat. This combination intensified weather disturbances, leading to incidents such as the billboard collapse.
Residents and motorists are urged to stay alert and monitor weather updates as the storm continues to affect the region.
For more news and updates on Katipunan Avenue lane blocks, visit Filipinokami.com.