PMA Stops Tourist Entry to Protect Visitors
BAGUIO CITY — The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has temporarily halted tourist entry as a safety measure due to worsening weather caused by Typhoon Emong. The PMA, a major tourist spot located within Fort del Pilar, remains closed to visitors “until further notice due to safety concerns brought about by the effects of Typhoon Emong,” said Navy Lt. Jesse Nestor Saludo, the academy’s spokesperson.
Since July 24, PMA’s disaster response team, including its fire brigade and first responders, has been on high alert. Heavy rains from Emong have drenched the Cordillera region, swelling rivers and flooding roads and farmlands like the well-known strawberry fields in La Trinidad, Benguet. The typhoon also caused severe rockfalls and landslides, prompting the academy to act swiftly to safeguard everyone within its grounds.
Safety Measures and Road Conditions Amid the Storm
“This precautionary measure aims to protect the public and all personnel inside the academy,” Saludo emphasized. He urged everyone to follow official PMA channels for updates on when tourist access will resume.
Regarding travel routes to Baguio City, only Kennon Road remains closed. All other major roads leading to the summer capital, including key mountain highways in the Cordilleras, are open. However, some sections remain restricted, such as part of Governor Bado Dangwa National Road in Barangay Labueg, Kapangan, Benguet, and several stretches of the Lubuagan-Batongbuhay Road in Kalinga’s Pasil town.
Impact on Tourism and Local Communities
The closure of PMA to tourists affects many visitors who consider the academy a landmark destination in Baguio. Local authorities and residents are closely monitoring weather updates and road conditions to ensure public safety during this period of heavy rains and potential hazards.
For now, the PMA’s priority remains the wellbeing of its personnel and visitors. Authorities continue to assess the situation and will announce when it is safe to welcome tourists back to the historic military school campus.
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