NEGROS OCCIDENTAL – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan has declared on Friday a ‘state of calamity’ in the province following the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano last Monday, December 9, 2024.
In a special session, the Provincial Board unanimously approved the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s (PDRRMC) recommendation for the declaration.
This also authorized 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.
Monitoring by OCD Western Visayas revealed that over 12,000 residents are currently staying in evacuation centers.
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.
As of December 12, the volcanic eruption has affected 17,216 individuals in the province, with more than 3,600 staying in evacuation centers and about 700 staying outside the facilities.
DSWD 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.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring aid and resources are delivered promptly to those in need.
