Floods linger in Cagayan after Chico River overflowed days after Uwan

Days after Super Typhoon Uwan battered northern Luzon, floodwaters continue to submerge several towns in Cagayan, with the Chico River overflowing and leaving thousands of residents reeling.

What was once a calm river turned into a raging flood that swallowed homes and roads in multiple towns, including Tuao, where residents woke up to chest-deep water and muddy streets strewn with logs and debris.

Many houses were destroyed as the floods rushed through communities.

“Dito kasi sa’min, hindi namin akalain na ganito kalakas ‘yung magiging hagupit ng Bagyong Uwan,” a resident said.

“Ito na ‘yung pinakamalakas na bagyo na naranasan namin dito,” they added.

Another resident recalled losing everything to the flood.

“Dito ang bahay namin eh, walang naiwan kahit gamit namin, wala nang naiwan,” the resident said.

Among those affected was a young boy named Zoren, whose home was also destroyed, but he managed to rescue a small puppy during the storm.

“Nanginginig po, tapos naaawa po ako, tapos kinuha ko na po,” Zoren said.

In Tuguegarao City, floodwaters rose to waist level, forcing some residents to climb onto their roofs for safety.

Rescue teams used boats to evacuate stranded families as the Cagayan River reached critical level, rising to nearly 12 meters.

The Tabuk–Enrile Road connecting Cagayan and Mountain Province also became impassable due to landslides and fallen rocks. Clearing operations are now underway by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has ordered the DPWH to conduct 24/7 clearing and repair operations across affected provinces to ensure the safety of residents and motorists.

DPWH said around 40 national road sections across the country remain impassable due to flooding, landslides, and fallen trees and electric posts, as of press time. —GMA Regional TV