Marcos Warns: Misinformation Can Cost Lives Amid Mount Kanlaon Eruption Crisis

In a strong warning against the perils of misinformation, President Ferdinand Marcos addressed the nation on Friday, highlighting the critical importance of accurate communication amidst the recent eruption of Mount Kanlaon. The president's remarks came at a crucial time when the safety of thousands of residents hangs in the balance, and miscommunication could have dire consequences. "Truth will save lives, fake news will kill," President Marcos stated emphatically in a video address, underscoring the vital role that reliable information plays during natural disasters. The eruption of Mount Kanlaon has prompted authorities to take swift action, with over 45,000 residents already evacuated from the six-kilometer danger zone around the volcano. An additional 84,000 individuals are slated for relocation as safety measures intensify. Marcos urged citizens to seek updates exclusively from official sources, such as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), which is tasked with monitoring volcanic activity and disseminating timely advisories. He reassured the public that PHIVOLCS will provide continuous updates in straightforward language to ensure that all individuals can understand the risks and necessary actions to take. The president’s call to action is particularly relevant in the era of social media, where misinformation can spread rapidly and undermine critical evacuation efforts. "I urge everyone, especially those refusing to evacuate, to heed the warnings of our authorities," he asserted, emphasizing that the safety of individuals and communities relies on trust in established communication channels. In conjunction with the evacuation efforts, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has mobilized resources to support those displaced by the eruption. Relief supplies including food packs, clean water, hygiene kits, and sleeping materials have been dispatched to evacuation centers, demonstrating the government's commitment to supporting affected residents during this crisis. "Our government is ready to help," Marcos stated, reinforcing the administration's resolve to provide care and assistance despite the challenges posed by the volcanic activity. Coordinated response efforts are being led by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) alongside Task Force Kanlaon, with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and Bureau of Fire Protection on high alert across Negros Island. The president highlighted the importance of community cooperation, noting that effective disaster management hinges on timely and accurate information disseminated to the public. As the situation evolves, President Marcos assured that any escalation in damages or destruction would be met with a robust government response. "We will step up. We will level up," he promised, instilling a sense of hope and determination in the face of adversity. The collective efforts of the government and the community will be pivotal in navigating the challenges posed by the eruption of Mount Kanlaon, with the president firmly advocating for vigilance against misinformation that threatens public safety.