Manila: A trio of tropical cyclones has inflicted significant infrastructure damage across the Philippines, with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reporting a partial cost of PHP561.7 million. The cyclones, which struck over the course of eight days, have caused widespread devastation, particularly impacting roads, bridges, and flood control structures.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DPWH detailed that Tropical Storm Nika (international name Toraji), Typhoon Ofel (Usagi), and Pepito (Man-yi) have severely affected the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and Region 2 (Cagayan Valley). The total damage to roads in these areas has reached PHP170.71 million. Additionally, bridges in Cagayan Valley have suffered PHP7.24 million in damages, while flood control structures in Regions 2 and 3 (Central Luzon) have incurred a cost of PHP338.79 million.

As of the latest reports, 25 road sections across the CAR, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and the Bicol Region remain impassable due to v
arious issues, including landslides, soil collapse, and mudslides. Key affected routes include the Banaue-Hungduan-Benguet Boundary Road, the Nueva Vizcaya-Ifugao-Mt Province Road, and the Cagayan-Apayao Road, among others. The DPWH has provided a comprehensive list of these impassable sections, highlighting the widespread impact of the cyclones.

Moreover, the DPWH Bureau of Maintenance has indicated that two roads in Nueva Ecija have restricted access due to flooding. These roads are open only to heavy vehicles, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the region.

Efforts are underway to assess and repair the damaged infrastructure, but the scale of destruction has posed significant challenges. The DPWH continues to monitor the situation and coordinate with local authorities to ensure the safety and accessibility of affected areas.