A powerful blow from Super Typhoon Fung-wong, known locally as Uwan, has brought train service between Naga and Legazpi to a halt. The Philippine National Railways (PNR) route is temporarily suspended as officials assess the significant damage inflicted by the storm.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez immediately ordered a thorough inspection of a critical bridge connecting San Rafael and Guinobatan in Albay. This bridge sustained damage during the typhoon, prompting the indefinite suspension of PNR operations along the Naga-Legazpi line to prioritize safety.
The focus now is on determining the full extent of the structural damage. Engineers will meticulously evaluate the bridge to guarantee it’s safe for public travel before any trains are allowed to resume service.
Recognizing the disruption to local commuters, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has been directed to increase the availability of public utility vehicles in the affected region. This aims to mitigate the impact of the train suspension and ensure people can still reach their destinations.
Fortunately, the nation’s airports largely weathered the storm with minimal impact. Initial reports from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) indicate that damage was mostly cosmetic, affecting ceilings, roofs, glass, and fencing.
While most airports have already returned to normal operations, some continue to experience temporary disruptions. Airports in Bulan, Bacon, Sangley, Plaridel, Iba, and Subic remain temporarily closed as crews work to address localized flooding and restore full power and connectivity.
Despite the challenges, authorities are working swiftly to restore transportation services and ensure the safety and convenience of the traveling public in the wake of Typhoon Uwan.
