World · Philippines Bureau
Benguet roads shut as landslides block key provincial routes
Multiple highways in Benguet province remained impassable Sunday following a series of landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. Debris blockages have disrupted traffic on key provincial roads as weather conditions continue to affect the region.
LSN Philippines ·
BAGUIO CITY — Several major roads in Benguet province remained closed Sunday, Aug. 30, after landslides and swollen water currents created hazardous conditions across the mountain region. The closures followed intensive rainfall that destabilized slopes along critical transport routes.
The Halsema-Madaymen-Ampusungan Provincial Road was declared impassable after a landslide deposited substantial debris at the entrance to the Pakpakitan-Taliboy-oc-Lamut Road, according to local authorities. The blockage prevented through-traffic and forced detours around the affected area.
The road closures coincided with the development of a low-pressure area into Tropical Depression Pilandok, which brought heavy rains to the Cordillera region. Local officials urged motorists to avoid affected routes and check road conditions before traveling.
Recovery operations and assessments were ongoing as authorities worked to clear debris and determine when routes could safely reopen. The exact timeline for restoring full access remained unclear as weather conditions continued to pose risks to restoration efforts.