Travel on Andaya Highway in the Municipality of Ragay in Camarines Sur became an ordeal for motorists on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 because of traffic that extended up 17 kilometers.

Travelers like Mariano Joaquin Victorino were stuck in traffic for more than five hours.

"We entered Andaya Highway at 7:20 this morning from Naga and exited Tabugon at 1:30 in the afternoon," Victorino said.

The situation worsened reportedly when vehicles attempted to counterflow.

Citation tickets were issued to violators.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) Ragay Enforcement Team had to step in to manage the jam.

LTO Ragay said the flow of traffic was disrupted by uneven roads, ongoing repairs, and undisciplined drivers.

LTO Ragay continues to assist motorists, as of this writing.

EARLIER ADVISORY

A travel advisory was earlier issued by LTO Bicol, informing travelers that a section of the Andaya Highway in Lupi has been damaged by heavy rains.

“Motorists traveling from Manila to Bicol, Visayas, and Mindanao are advised that a portion of the Andaya Highway in Lupi, Camarines Sur, has been damaged by heavy rains, causing significant soil erosion,” it read.

As of this writing, only one lane is passable due to ongoing road reblocking.

Motorists were advised to be careful in the area and consider alternative routes.

"Motorists heading from Manila to Daet, Camarines Norte, are advised that the road in the Municipality of Labo is impassable due to erosion. Alternative routes should be considered," it read.