Typhoons leave 16 roads impassable

Sixteen roads have remained impassable due to the combined effects of tropical cyclones Mirasol, Nando and Opong as well as the southwest monsoon, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways.

- By EMMANUEL TUPAS and BELLA CARIASO

The DPWH said that quick response teams were mobilized to clear roads and restore operations in the Cordilleras, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Bicol, Western Visayas and Eastern Visayas.

Among the causes of road closures were flooding, soil erosion, damaged slope protection, toppled power posts and other debris.

These roads are located in Apayao, Benguet, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Cagayan, Isabela, Masbate, Antique, Biliran and Leyte.

The DPWH said access to 10 other roads in the Cordilleras, Ilocos, Calabarzon and Bicol have been limited due to damage and clearing operations.

Close to 7,000 passengers have been stranded at various ports nationwide due to Opong.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) yesterday said Opong stalled 2,639 rolling cargoes, 80 vessels and 31 motorboats.