All schools within the designated ‘Kanlaon’ permanent danger zones (PDZ) will remain shut until further notice amid the increased activity of the volcano as well potential hazards arising from inclement weather and other seismic events, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) declared on Tuesday.
This developed after OCD Administrator and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director Ariel Nepomuceno convened an emergency preparedness meeting to address the impacts of the shear line, Kanlaon unrest, and undersea quakes in Ilocos Sur.
Key directives were issued to protect communities and strengthen disaster response efforts including the following measures:
- School closures – the Regional Task Force (RTF) Kanlaon was instructed to formally notify the Department of Education (DepEd) to close all schools within the PDZ.
- Construction suspension – building structures and entry of residents are likewise prohibited within these danger zones.
- Disaster preparedness – OCD regional offices were tasked to assist local government units in hazard mapping as well as integrating tsunami drills into their respective emergency response plans.
The OCD requested a briefing in January 2025 from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on the current status of the six significant trenches around the country.
“As of December 24, 2024, a total of 186 earthquakes have been recorded offshore Ilocos Sur, ranging from magnitudes of 1.8 to 5.0 at various depths,” according to the OCD.
“The potential for a tsunami exists, particularly from offshore earthquakes with magnitudes of 6.5 or greater along the Manila Trench,” it added.
Nepomuceno relayed constant reminders from the national government to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols, especially among communities that are directly affected by these natural threats.
