Separate landslides were reported in parts of Northern Luzon as days of heavy rain soaked mountain areas, triggering falling rocks and road blockages.

In Vintar, Ilocos Norte, large rocks fell onto the road in Pallas Valley after strong rainfall in recent days. Fortunately, the road remains passable and no injuries were reported.

In Sitio Pugo, Barangay Amganad, Banaue, Ifugao, a landslide also occurred due to continuous downpours. Local officials launched a clearing operation quickly to restore access.

As more rains are expected, the Office of the Civil Defense–Cordillera has raised its alert level to “blue alert,” warning communities to prepare for possible evacuations.

“Kaya palagi natin pinapaalalahanan ‘yung mga kailians natin na maging maingat sa mga biyahe, sa ating mga kabahayan, sa ating komunidad. Mag-evacuate kung kinakailangan,” Frankie Cortez, Chief of Operations Section of OCD-CAR, said.

PAGASA Baguio City said the rains are caused by localized thunderstorms and not by the southwest monsoon (habagat).

“Ang effect kasi nito ‘yung binibigay na hazardous heavy rain, pero short duration lang,” Engr. Larry Esperanza, Chief Meteorologist of PAGASA-Baguio City, said.

“Pero kung maraming thunderstorm… tumatagal din. Pero kung kaunti lang siguro, less than an hour tapos na ang pag-uulan,” he added.