The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) called for the immediate evacuation of residents within the six-kilometer extended danger zone around Mount Kanlaon, following a Regional Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (RIACC) meeting on Monday on the possible imposition of Alert Level 4.
OCD Western Visayas Director and Task Force Kanlaon chairperson Raul Fernandez led the critical meeting, which included representatives from Phivolcs, PAGASA, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The discussion focused on escalating volcanic activity and preparations for a potential Alert Level 4 scenario.
During the meeting, Phivolcs reported alarming findings from a December 12 aerial survey. Ash emissions and low-frequency earthquakes have persisted since Monday morning, with the ash plume drifting west-northwest, potentially affecting Bacolod City and nearby areas.
Since June 3, 2024, the volcano has recorded 2,181 tectonic earthquakes. Inflation was observed in the eastern and northeastern sectors starting in July, while deflation occurred in the southeastern and western sectors in late November.
Seismologists recommended mandatory evacuations within the danger zone, warning that volcanic activity could lead to major ground deformation, pyroclastic flows, and lahars, particularly during heavy rainfall.
PAGASA warned that localized thunderstorms and rains in the coming days could carry ash to Guimaras and other areas. Health officials reminded camp managers to enforce food safety measures, especially during the holiday season, to prevent food poisoning in evacuation centers.
On the part of local government units (LGUs), Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson affirmed the need to enforce evacuation protocols without extending the danger zone to 10 kilometers. LGUs have activated contingency plans and are preparing for worst-case scenarios.
Task Force Kanlaon emphasized proper donation accounting and distribution per standard guidelines. Meanwhile, authorities are finalizing evacuations for six individuals, including persons with disabilities, still in Barangay Yubo, La Carlota City.
Ocular inspections of potential evacuation sites are underway, with immediate needs including portalets, diapers, and generators. The OCD and the Department of Health (DOH) are working to procure and distribute these resources.
As the situation remains volatile, officials urge residents to comply with evacuation orders and stay updated on advisories to ensure their safety. Task Force Kanlaon said it will continue to monitor the volcano and provide further updates.
