The Wright-Taft Road in Eastern Samar cleared of mudslide debris two days ago is once again closed to all types of vehicles due to another landslide on Wednesday morning.

DPWH Eastern Samar information officer Jayson Espeso said no one was hurt in the latest landslide. Clearing works were suspended a few hours after the mudslides due to heavy downpour in the area.

“We ask for the cooperation and understanding of the public. We are doing our best to clear the road from debris,” Espeso said, adding that personnel and equipment are on standby once the safety of personnel is ensured.

In its advisory, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Eastern Samar district office asked motorists to use the alternate route Buenavista-Lawaan-Marabut Road to get to Borongan City and the northern part of Eastern Samar.

Between Jan. 3 and Jan. 7, four landslide incidents occurred along the same road portion in Binaloan village in Taft, Eastern Samar that partially buried two passenger vehicles and forced its closure for almost two weeks.

This time, authorities immediately closed the same road section due to the danger of falling debris and possibly another landslide.

As an immediate solution to the problem, the department is already preparing the plans, program of works, and other supporting documents for the calamity fund request to build slope protection on the site.

Espeso said a viaduct or rerouting road is needed as a long-term solution to avoid future road closure due to landslide.

The DPWH has coordinated with other government agencies and local government units to boost manpower and equipment and speed up the clearing operations in the area. (PNA)