Roads Now Accessible After Lahar Flow in Albay
LEGAZPI CITY – Roads affected by the lahar flow triggered by heavy rains in Guinobatan, Albay, are now passable following rapid clearing operations on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) promptly responded to the flash floods and debris flow in Barangay Masarawag, located near the foot of Mayon Volcano.
Local leaders confirmed that the lahar flow roads are now clear, allowing safe passage for residents and emergency vehicles. Albay 3rd District Representative Adrian Salceda expressed relief, stating, “We will continue to remain vigilant, as there have been zero reported casualties so far.”
Immediate Government Response and Support
Authorities swiftly conducted clearing operations soon after the flash floods, ensuring that the affected roads were passable in a timely manner. Food supplies have also been distributed to residents impacted by the lahar flow, addressing immediate needs in the community.
Community members noted ongoing distribution of family food packs, with continuous monitoring of the affected areas. Cedric Daep, former chief of the Albay Public Safety Emergency Management Office and chief of staff to Rep. Salceda, emphasized the priority of safety during these operations.
Monitoring and Disaster Preparedness Efforts
“Immediately after the lahar, we conducted a clearing operation and ensured the safety of the responders to maintain zero casualties,” Daep explained in a recent interview. He added that 11 barangays remain under close observation as the government focuses on providing necessary support.
Officials also highlighted their readiness to offer technical assistance to barangays and municipalities in disaster response. Daep shared that customized training modules have been developed for each town, taking into account their unique geographical and physical characteristics to enhance disaster preparedness.
Legislative and Safety Measures Underway
In addition to emergency response, local leaders plan to explore legislative support aimed at bolstering interventions and ecological projects within the 3rd district. This strategy seeks to strengthen long-term resilience against future lahar flows and related disasters.
Daep further stressed the importance of implementing road closures and limiting public exposure to lahar during thunderstorm advisories to prevent accidents and injuries.
Impact on the Community
Guinobatan Mayor Gemma Ongoco reported that approximately 1,300 families were affected by the recent lahar flow. Efforts continue to provide aid and restore normalcy to the impacted communities as government agencies and local officials coordinate their response.
For more news and updates on lahar flow roads, visit Filipinokami.com.
