CABANGAN, Zambales, Philippines — Rising floodwaters cut off a section of the National Highway in Cabangan, Zambales, on Friday, August 28, forcing authorities to declare the affected road impassable to all vehicles as the province braces for more days of heavy rain.
The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) said the affected stretch in Barangay Mabanglit was initially closed to light vehicles at around 9:30 a.m. But as floodwaters continued to rise, authorities declared the road impassable to all types of vehicles by 12:50 p.m.
Motorists were urged to avoid the flooded section and use alternate routes while authorities monitor conditions.
The highway closure comes as PAGASA continues to warn of significant rainfall over Zambales, with an estimated 100 to 200 millimeters of rain expected from Friday through Sunday, and potentially higher amounts in mountainous and elevated areas.
A Province Still Reeling From Weeks of Flooding
Friday’s flooding is the latest blow to a province that has already endured widespread damage and displacement from weeks of severe weather.
Earlier this month, heavy rains associated with the southwest monsoon, or habagat, inundated riverine and coastal communities across Zambales. Provincial disaster officials reported that 2,876 residents had evacuated by August 9, as rising waters affected 12 of the province’s 13 municipalities.
Cabangan was among the hardest-hit areas during that earlier wave of flooding, underscoring how vulnerable communities and transport routes remain as repeated rains continue to saturate the province.
The damage has extended far beyond flooded roads. In neighboring San Marcelino, powerful currents from the swollen Sto. Tomas River earlier washed away a bridge and isolated parts of Barangay Sta. Fe. The wider flooding crisis has also damaged river dikes, revetments, farms and homes across Zambales.
By August 22, provincial officials had placed Zambales under a state of calamity after reporting more than P591 million in damage to government infrastructure and agriculture. Disaster officials said thousands of residents had been displaced at the height of the recent severe weather, highlighting the scale of the continuing humanitarian and infrastructure challenge.
Motorists Told to Stay Alert
With more rain forecast in the coming days, authorities are urging residents and travelers to remain vigilant, especially in flood-prone and low-lying areas.
The situation in Barangay Mabanglit also serves as a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can change during prolonged monsoon rains. A road that was still partially accessible in the morning was completely closed to traffic just hours later.
For now, motorists traveling through Zambales are advised to monitor official local government, disaster management and weather advisories before setting out.
As rain continues to threaten the province, the question remains: how many more roads and communities could be affected before the weather finally eases?
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