Authorities in Baguio City are monitoring City Camp Lagoon in Barangay Lower Rock Quarry closely where garbage buildup is threatening to cause flooding if left unchecked.

The City Engineering Office has been clearing piles of waste from the lagoon to prevent water from overflowing. They said if the water reaches the yellow marker, the local government will implement preemptive evacuation.

Assistant City DRRM officer Glenn Lardizabal said they are on alert, especially in landslide-prone areas.

“We are alerting BDRRMO’s especially sa may Irisan, Lucban, Aurora Hill, Quezon Hill na landslide area,” he said.

If the lagoon overflows, 13 barangays could experience flooding. Residents said they are used to the regular cleanup.

“Palagi naman na nililinis kasi kung hindi talagang aapaw yan, hanggang doon aabutin ng baha,” Pacita Pasagoy, a resident, said.

Light to moderate rains brought by Tropical Depression #MirasolPH have been recorded in the city, prompting officials to suspend classes from preschool to senior high school. Barangay officials have also been coordinating with the LGU to prepare for possible evacuations.

In neighboring Benguet, authorities are also monitoring flood- and landslide-prone areas. Motorists were advised to avoid Kennon Road.

“Based on the advisory of DPWH, open to light vehicle, pero we advice na huwag na muna dumaan since umuulan,” Lardizabal added.