By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — España Boulevard was transformed into a virtual floodway as relentless rains driven by the southwest monsoon, or habagat, sent floodwaters rising on both sides of the major Manila thoroughfare, trapping motorists, commuters and students.
Traffic movement was severely disrupted as vehicles struggled through the deepening water, with some motorists left stranded while others were forced to stop and wait for conditions to improve. The flooding made portions of the busy road virtually impassable, particularly as the rain continued to pour.
The situation was particularly difficult around the University of Santo Tomas, where students and other commuters found themselves unable to safely leave the area. Some sought refuge inside university facilities as floodwaters outside continued to rise.
With roads clogged and vehicles barely moving, motorists faced long delays while trying to negotiate the flooded boulevard. The rising water also posed greater risks to smaller vehicles and motorcycles, prompting many travelers to abandon their journeys temporarily rather than attempt to cross deeper sections.
The flooding came as Manila and other parts of Metro Manila experienced intense rainfall that triggered widespread inundation and prompted authorities to closely monitor affected communities and major roadways.
Disaster response personnel remained on alert as the city dealt with the effects of the heavy rains, while motorists and commuters were urged to exercise caution and avoid flooded routes whenever possible.
By the following morning, floodwaters had receded in several affected areas, allowing previously flooded roads to become passable again. Authorities, however, continued monitoring conditions as rains associated with the habagat persisted.
For students, commuters and motorists caught in the deluge, España Boulevard became a stark reminder of how quickly intense rainfall can bring one of Manila’s busiest corridors to a standstill.
ia/xf
