Urgent Evacuations Needed as Kanlaon Volcano Eruption Sparks Hesitation Among Residents

As the threat from Kanlaon Volcano looms large, officials are grappling with a complex situation in the danger zone. Despite the recent elevation of Alert Level 3 following an explosive eruption, which sent a towering plume of ash and smoke reaching 4,000 meters into the sky, some residents remain reluctant to evacuate their homes. Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. addressed this pressing issue during an inter-agency meeting on Tuesday. He noted that many residents are hesitant to leave, primarily due to their unfamiliarity with such dire situations and a strong attachment to their properties. “The issues we are facing now, people are hesitant to evacuate because they are not used to this kind of situation and so they are hesitant to leave their properties,” Teodoro explained. The urgency of the situation cannot be understated, as authorities have advised residents within a six-kilometer radius of the volcano to evacuate immediately. The government is tasked with facilitating the evacuation of approximately 54,000 individuals, yet, as of now, only about 9,400 residents have complied with the evacuation orders. Teodoro emphasized the need for a balanced approach in handling the evacuation process, indicating that while it is essentially a forced evacuation, it is done with consideration for the residents' emotional and psychological state. “It’s already forced evacuation, but of course, we’re convincing the people because even if it’s forced, they’re still human, right?” he stated. The towns most affected by the volcanic activity include La Castellana in Negros Occidental and Canlaon City in Negros Oriental. Local governments are accelerating their evacuation efforts, with municipalities like La Castellana reportedly increasing their pace. Allocating adequate provisions for those being evacuated is a priority, ensuring that displaced families have the necessary support during this critical time. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the eruption lasted for nearly four minutes and resulted in ashfall and pyroclastic density currents, which pose serious risks to anyone remaining in the vicinity. In response to the eruption, Task Force Kanlaon has commenced operations to manage the situation and safeguard residents. As the authorities strive to balance the urgency of evacuation with the emotional ties of the residents to their homes, the coming days will be crucial in determining the safety and well-being of those living in the shadow of Kanlaon Volcano. The community's resilience will be tested as they navigate this natural disaster, and the government's efforts will play a vital role in guiding them through this unprecedented crisis.