Rains Force Closure of 18 National Road Sections Across Philippines
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) confirmed that continuous heavy rains have forced the closure of 18 national road sections nationwide as of Tuesday, July 22. These closures stem from road cuts, soil collapses, and flooding linked to the southwest monsoon, Severe Tropical Storm Crising, and a low-pressure area (LPA) within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
The impact of these weather disturbances has disrupted traffic flow in key areas, including Metro Manila, the Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, and Western Visayas. Local officials noted the urgency in addressing these hazards to ensure public safety and restore mobility.
Affected Road Sections in Metro Manila and Beyond
Twelve of the affected road closures are within Metro Manila, including critical points such as G. Araneta Avenue, Sto. Domingo Avenue, and MacArthur Highway in Valenzuela City. Other affected roads include the Apayao-Ilocos Norte Road and Claveria-Calanasan-Flora-Lasam Road in Apayao, as well as Kennon Road in Benguet.
The following list highlights the closed national road sections:
1. Apayao (Calanasan)-Ilocos Norte Road, Tanglagan, Calanasan, Apayao
2. Claveria-Calanasan-Flora-Lasam Road, Brgy. Ninoy, Calanasan, Apayao
3. Kennon Road, Camp 6, Tuba, Benguet
4-9. Multiple intersections and stretches in Quezon City
10-12. Various roads and service roads in Valenzuela City
13-15. Key roads including España Blvd. and Blumentritt Road
16-18. Roads in Bulacan, Tarlac, and Iloilo
Limited Access on Additional Road Sections
Besides the closures, 15 other national road sections face limited access due to hazards like flooding, soil collapse, fallen trees, and road slips. These areas span Metro Manila, Central Luzon, the Zamboanga Peninsula, and Calabarzon.
Some of the roads with limited access include Boni Avenue in Mandaluyong, Imelda Avenue in Pasig, Taft Avenue near Pedro Gil, and Manila North Road in Bulacan. In the Zamboanga Peninsula, roads like Liloy-Siocon Road and Zamboanga West Coastal Road are affected by landslides and washed-out detours.
Authorities urge motorists to exercise caution and seek alternate routes where possible. Despite these challenges, the DPWH confirms that other national roads and bridges remain passable to all vehicle types as of early Tuesday morning.
Weather Conditions and Outlook
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that the habagat (southwest monsoon) combined with one of the two LPAs in the PAR is causing widespread rains in various regions. Meanwhile, the second LPA shows signs of developing into a tropical depression by Wednesday, July 23.
These weather systems continue to bring heavy rains that increase the risk of flooding and landslides, prompting government agencies to monitor affected areas closely and issue timely advisories.
For more news and updates on road conditions and weather, visit Filipinokami.com.
