DPWH Clears Kennon Road After Soil Collapse, Restores Traffic in 2 Hours

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines— The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) cleared a section of Kennon Road on Sunday morning, July 12, after a soil collapse temporarily obstructed part of the highway amid continuing rains. In an advisory, the DPWH-Cordillera said the soil collapse occurred around 7 a.m. along Kennon Road. After authorities determined that the affected slope had stabilized, maintenance personnel from the DPWH–Baguio City District Engineering Office (BCDEO) were immediately deployed for clearing operations. The clearing work began around 8:30 a.m., with heavy equipment and maintenance crews removing soil and debris from the roadway. By 9 a.m., the affected section had been cleared, allowing the safe passage of motorists. The latest incident occurs as continuous rains increase the risk of landslides, rockfalls, and other road hazards in the Cordillera region. DPWH urged motorists to exercise extreme caution while traveling, warning that the prevailing inclement weather could trigger flooding, landslides, rockfalls, falling trees, and poor visibility along national roads. The agency also advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel whenever possible, obey traffic advisories and warning signs, reduce speed in hazardous areas, and prioritize safety while driving. Kennon Road, one of the major routes linking Baguio City to the lowlands, remains vulnerable to rain-induced slope failures, particularly during periods of persistent rainfall. Authorities said road maintenance teams continue to monitor the highway for possible hazards. — Maureen Matayew (Contributor) / atm Information Source: Inquirer NewsInfo