Residents in Benguet and provinces nearby are on alert for possible landslides and flooding as rains from Tropical Depression #NandoPH continue to enhance the southwest monsoon.

In Tuba, Benguet, residents living at the foot of mountains said they are ready to evacuate once heavy rains hit.

“Kapag malakas ang ulan, aalis din kami. Lilipat kami sa evacuation center,” Rommel Agustin, a resident, said.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau-Cordillera (MGB-CAR) said more than 500 barangays in the region are considered susceptible to landslides and floods during storms. Supervising Geologist Engr. Jethro Panganiban stressed the importance of safety.

“Nag-re-recommend tayo ng pre-emptive evacuation kasi ’yung ganyang ulan, syempre identified natin ang mga areas na magkakaroon ng possible landslide,” he said.

Authorities are also keeping a close watch on Kennon Road, which remains open to light vehicles. However, geologists warned it is unsafe for motorists due to possible rockslides.

“Sa ngayon wala pang mga mitigation doon, tsaka marami pang mga nakasabit doon na pwedeng mahulog,” Panganiban added.

The Office of Civil Defense-Cordillera (OCD-CAR) said it has not recorded major flooding or landslides after Tropical Depression Mirasol but has placed its personnel and equipment on standby.

“Naka-standby ang mga resources natin. Actually natapos na kahapon ang ating pre-disaster assessment scenario building para ma-analyze ang mga possible effect ng mga weather systems na ito,” Frankie Cortez, chief of OCD-CAR’s Operations Section, said.

Officials reminded residents in high-risk areas to remain alert and to cooperate with pre-emptive evacuation orders if necessary.