DPWH deploys teams, equipment to storm-hit areas; 68 roads reopened

Manila: A total of 9,005 personnel and 2,048 units of heavy equipment, through its Quick Response Assets, have been deployed to areas affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reported Saturday. In a statement, the DPWH said the resources have been strategically positioned to expedite debris clearing and road repairs to reopen critical transport routes as quickly as possible. Of the 93 road sections nationwide disrupted by Kristine, the DPWH has reopened 68 sections, while 25 remain impassable due to flooding, landslides, rockfalls, and collapsed bridges. In the Cordillera region, four sections are closed due to soil collapse, fallen trees, rockslides, landslides, and mudflow. In Cagayan Valley, two sections are closed due to flooding. In Calabarzon, five sections are impassable due to road and bridge collapses, mudslides, and flooding, while seven have limited access. In Mimaropa, one section is closed due to a landslide, and in Bicol, 12 sections ar e closed due to flooding, landslides, and road collapse while 10 sections have limited access. In Central Visayas, one section is closed due to road slip. The DPWH said to protect motorists, it has placed warning signs along roads with limited access. 'Our teams are working around the clock to restore safe and accessible roadways, understanding that these are vital lifelines for communities impacted by the storm,' DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said. 'By doing so, we aim to facilitate the efficient delivery of relief supplies, medical assistance, and other essential services to affected areas, supporting efforts to rebuild and recover from this crisis. Through a comprehensive response and rapid deployment of resources, DPWH aims to assist in the timely recovery of affected communities.' Aside from road clearing, the DPWH is also cleaning and declogging drainage systems to prevent further flooding. Source: Philippines News Agency