By Michelle Ducut
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Cordillera has advised motorists to avoid Kennon Road due to ongoing rock falls caused by continuous heavy rains over the past weeks. DPWH-Cordillera Director Engr. Khadaffy Tanggol urged travelers to take alternate routes for safety, as the road’s rock slopes have become increasingly unstable.
Tanggol noted that the region is currently experiencing the effects of Typhoon Nika (international name Toraji), with some areas under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) 4 and 3. He recommended that motorists use Marcos Highway, the Nangalisan-San Pascual Road, or the Naguilian Road as safer alternatives.
“[The rock slope is] unstable. There are rocks falling from the mountains, which is why we do not recommend motorists to pass through Kennon Road and instead use alternate roads for their safety,” Tanggol stated in a phone interview.
While the road itself is clear and accessible, the risk comes from loose rocks on the surrounding mountain slopes, he added. Tanggol also mentioned that a temporary scrow structure at Camp 2 has been completed, allowing one-way passage for light vehicles, but emphasized that the safety of motorists remains a priority.
The final decision on opening or closing Kennon Road lies with the Baguio, La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba, Tublay Development Authority (BLISTTDA), which continues to monitor road conditions amid the adverse weather.