Abra de Ilog-Puerto Galera road reopens after landslide

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — The Abra de Ilog–Puerto Galera Road in Sitio Lukutan, Barangay Udalo, Abra de Ilog town reopened on Friday, Sept. 25, following clearing operations, but motorists were urged to exercise extreme caution due to an unstable boulder perched above the roadway, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The road was temporarily closed after a major landslide and rockfall covered the highway with debris, cutting off travel between the two municipalities. DPWH crews and local disaster response teams worked to clear the slide area and restore access.

Despite the reopening, authorities warned that a massive boulder remains dangerously balanced on the slope, posing an immediate threat to all passing vehicles.

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READ: Abra de Ilog–Puerto Galera road clearing underway after major landslide

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“There is a possibility of soil erosion and falling rocks, including a large boulder that remains a hazard to those passing through,” DPWH Mimaropa said in an advisory.

Geologists noted the destabilization was triggered by the combined effects of a recent magnitude 5.6 earthquake and prolonged soil saturation from heavy southwest monsoon or habagat rains.

The agency strictly advised motorists to avoid traversing the stretch during heavy downpours, when the risk of further landslides and rockfall is highest.

“The public is encouraged to stay alert and comply with the advisories issued by the proper authorities to ensure everyone’s safety,” DPWH added. /das