Maharlika Highway in Bicol now passable — DPWH
Metro Manila, Philippines — Authorities allowed all types of vehicles to use the main access road in the Bicol Region — the Maharlika Highway — on Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 29, after the river-like flood from non-stop rains subsided.
The regional Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) office said motorists can also pass through the San Fernando-Milaor Section, which is encountering heavy traffic with some parts still flooded with up to 0.3 meter.
"This reopening follows thorough assessments and necessary road clearing to ensure safe travel for all motorists," the DPWH-Region 5 said.
"We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during the temporary closure. Please continue to exercise caution and observe traffic regulations as you travel through the area," it said.
The national government admitted the massive flooding in the hard-hit Bicol region hampered relief and rescue efforts.
The Maharlika Highway connects the islands of Luzon, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao.
The Department of Energy, meanwhile, announced fuel supply has reached critical Bicol areas.
Energy Undersecretary Wimpy Fuentebella said 42 tanker trucks with around a million liters of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene reached Naga City and nearby areas.
Fuentabella said the supply can fill up the tanks of around 25,000 ambulance units.
Another 19 tankers brought a two-week supply of liquefied petroleum gas or cooking gas.
"We have 76% sa ating mga gasolinahan in the Bicol region that are operational, 180 out of 236 outlets," Fuentebella said in a press conference.
"'Yong natitirang 24%, tutukan kung safe na ito ulit mag-operate at 'yong produkto ay hindi contaminated para magamit na po ng ating mga consumer," he added.
[Translation: We have 76% of gasoline stations in the Bicol region that are operational, 180 out of 236 outlets. The remaining 24% will be monitored if they are safe to resume operations and if their products are not contaminated so that consumers can use them.]
Designated routes have been identified to send tankers to retail outlets.
Fuentebella said refueling can take place once the trucks reach the nearest oil depot in Pasacao town.
He warned against overpricing and hoarding.
"Patuloy na nanawagan 'yong OCD (Office of Civil Defense) na 'yong magbabiyahe papuntang area ng Bicol region, specifically sa Polangui-San Fernando segment, pasok po diyan ang Naga, Iriga City, and other areas, sana po i-delay 'yong biyahe nila for two days para mas makabwelo yong restoration team," Fuentebella said.
[Translation: The OCD is continuously calling on those bound for the Bicol region, specifically along the Polangui-San Fernando segment, including Naga, Iriga City, and other areas, to delay travel for two days to make way for the restoration team.]
