The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Council) in Negros Occidental has declared a state of calamity in the province following the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano last Monday.
In a special session on Friday, the council unanimously approved the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s (PDRRMC) recommendation for the declaration.
This declaration authorizes the release of the province’s calamity funds, the implementation of a price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities, and the activation of the Quick Response Fund (QRF).
According to Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Western Visayas Director Raul Fernandez, the declaration will significantly boost disaster response operations.
“Local government units can now utilize their QRF to continue assisting affected residents,” he said.
Meanwhile, President Marcos warned the public about the dangers of misinformation in light of the volcano’s eruption, stressing that “truth will save lives, fake news will kill.”
Speaking in a video address, the chief executive highlighted the critical role of accurate communication during disasters, warning that the spread of false information could lead to confusion and endanger lives.
“Effective disaster response is anchored on reliable information,” he said, urging citizens to rely on updates from official agencies like the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
Mr. Marcos assured that PHIVOLCS will continue to issue around-the-clock advisories in simple, clear language to guide the public.
The president called for vigilance against the spread of fake news, particularly on social media, which he said could undermine evacuation efforts and safety protocols.
“I urge everyone, especially those refusing to evacuate, to heed the warnings of our authorities,” Mr. Marcos said.
The President also pledged to continue comprehensive government assistance and emphasized public safety in response to Kanlaon’s eruption.
He reported that more than 45,000 residents have already been evacuated from a six-kilometer danger zone surrounding the volcano, and another 84,000 people may also be relocated.
“Our government is ready to help. As fierce as this volcano may be, so is our determination to extend care and assistance,” Mr. Marcos said.
Amid the crisis, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), local government units (LGUs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have distributed more than P11.3 million in humanitarian aid to affected families.
DSWD Field Office 6 reported that P9.8 million worth of assistance has been provided by the department, while the remaining amount came from LGUs and NGOs.
It was reported that Kanlaon’s eruption has led to an urgent humanitarian crisis in Canlaon City, which sits at the foothills of the volcano.
DSWD disclosed that it has prepared P129 million in standby funds along with a stockpile of food and non-food items, ready to augment resources for LGUs if needed. With Rex Espiritu
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Negros Occidental declares ‘state of calamity’ after Kanlaon eruption.”
