MANILA — Mount Kanlaon’s explosive eruption Monday has thrust nearly 87,000 residents into a critical evacuation scenario, with Philippine authorities scrambling to ensure public safety amid escalating volcanic activity.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has activated the Inter-agency Coordinating Cell, signaling the government’s urgent response to the unfolding natural disaster. The eruption’s impact is most severely concentrated in La Castellana, where approximately 46,900 individuals find themselves within a perilous 6-kilometer danger zone.
“Our primary objective is protecting human life,” Teodoro emphasized, as military and civil defense units mobilize resources across Western Visayas and Central Visayas regions.
Strategic evacuation efforts are focusing on vulnerable communities, with Barangay Sag-ang receiving particular attention due to potentially hazardous westward wind patterns. Transportation support has been expedited for residents in multiple municipalities, including Cabagnaan, Himamaylan, and Moises Padilla.
Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City stands ready as the primary evacuation center, capable of sheltering up to 30,000 displaced individuals. Local schools have been transformed into temporary safe zones, while water tanks are being strategically positioned to meet evacuees’ immediate needs.
The Office of Civil Defense has launched a comprehensive response, distributing 2,100 face masks and 1,000 family hygiene kits. Additional regions, including Guimaras and Bago City, are experiencing ashfall and sulfur odors, further complicating rescue operations.
Military reinforcements from the 303rd and 302nd Infantry Divisions are being deployed to support evacuation efforts, underscoring the government’s commitment to community protection.
Task Force Kanlaon, led by Regional Director Raul Fernandez, continues to monitor the situation closely, coordinating resources and assessing potential risks across affected regions.
Evacuation centers have been established in the following areas:
–Barangay Lag-asan, Bago City, Negros Occidental province;
–Brgy. Tabao, Sagay City, Negros Occidental:
–Brgy. Rizal, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental;
–Barrio Vista Alegre, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental;
–Brgy. Hilamonan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental;
–Brgy. Sibucao, San Enrique, Negros Occidental:
–Brgy. Ill, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental;
–Brgy. Taculing, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental;
–Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental;
–Brgy. Cubay, La Carlota, Negros Occidental; and
–Sitio Canlayuhan, Brgy. Gil Montilla, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.
As volcanic activity persists, authorities remain vigilant, prioritizing the safety and well-being of thousands of displaced residents.
This is a developing story.
