In response to the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Visayas Command (VISCOM) placed its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) Teams on high alert.
“We have placed our HADR Teams on high alert, ready to provide immediate assistance to the affected communities. We have established close coordination with the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) to ensure timely and synchronized disaster response efforts,” assured Lieutenant General Fernando M. Reyeg PA, the Commander of VISCOM.
The eruption produced a volcanic plume that soared up to 4,000 meters above the summit. Pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), which are fast-moving mixtures of hot gas, ash, and volcanic debris, were observed traveling down the southeastern slopes of the volcano, as recorded by thermal cameras and monitoring equipment.
Lasting about seven minutes, the eruption caused ashfall in several areas, including Bago City, Guintubdan, Ara-al in La Carlota City, and Mambukal in Murcia, Negros Occidental.
Over the past month, Mt. Kanlaon has been increasingly active, with frequent earthquakes and higher-than-normal sulfur dioxide emissions.
Following this event, VISCOM placed all its HADR Teams on standby alert, ready to move on order. It also advised its units in Negros Island to closely coordinate with the local DRRMCs in their respective areas to assist in mitigating the risks posed by the eruption.
Additionally, mobility assets were placed on standby alert to ensure a swift and effective response when needed.
“We are working hand-in-hand with local authorities to assess the situation and provide the necessary support when the need arises. Our coordinated efforts aim to mitigate the impact of this eruption,” Lt. Gen. Reyeg added.
Based on the latest update from Phivolcs, the Alert Level Status of Mt. Kanlaon has been elevated from Level 2 (Increasing Unrest) to Level 3 (Magmatic Unrest).
It was reported that the eruption is stronger based on seismic and observational data, with the potential for more short-lived explosive eruptions that could generate pyroclastic flows, lava flows, and rockfalls within a 6-km radius from the summit crater.
Mandatory evacuation is in effect, and local government units are advised to prepare for a possible escalation to Alert Level 4 if volcanic activity intensifies.
Additionally, if heavy rains occur during the eruption, lahars or muddy streamflows may impact areas beyond the volcano, necessitating heightened vigilance from the public.
“In times of crisis, our resolve to support and safeguard our communities is unwavering. We urge everyone to stay vigilant and adhere to the advisories and instructions from local authorities. Together, we can overcome this challenge and emerge stronger and more resilient,” he ended.