Urgent Evacuations in Negros as Mount Kanlaon Threatens Safety of Thousands

In a decisive move to safeguard residents from the looming dangers posed by Mount Kanlaon, the Regional Task Force Kanlaon has enacted a mandatory evacuation order for families residing within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ). This evacuation directive impacts communities across several localities in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, including La Castellana, La Carlota City, Bago City, and San Carlos City, as well as Canlaon City. As the deadline for evacuation approaches on December 16, authorities report an impressive 81 percent evacuation rate, having relocated approximately 3,066 families, or an estimated 12,316 individuals, from the designated danger zone. The city of Canlaon is facing the most significant challenge, with 1,277 families still in the area, while La Castellana and La Carlota City follow with 983 and 695 families respectively. The urgency of the evacuation order stems from serious concerns regarding volcanic activity at Kanlaon, which has recently been marked by a concerning buildup of 3 million cubic meters of lahar. In a memorandum dated December 14, the task force emphasized that the forced evacuation aims to ensure the safety and protection of families in anticipation of potential re-eruption or worse scenarios. Despite the risks, some families, particularly among the Indigenous communities in Canlaon City, have expressed hesitance in leaving their homes. This reluctance has prompted authorities to implement strict measures to facilitate the evacuation process, which includes designated timeframes for entry and exit from the PDZ, limited to the hours of 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Local government units and law enforcement agencies are managing checkpoints and ensuring the safe transit of individuals in and out of the danger zone. As of December 15, the Office of Civil Defense in Western Visayas reported that the recent volcanic activity has displaced a staggering 6,776 families, comprising about 22,771 individuals. Evacuation shelters have been established in various municipalities, with 4,881 families currently housed in 28 centers in Negros Occidental alone. La Castellana has the highest concentration of evacuees, with 2,825 families seeking refuge, while Negros Oriental is accommodating an additional 1,243 families. In response to the humanitarian crisis, the Department of Social Welfare and Development and local organizations have mobilized efforts to provide aid, distributing nearly P14.8 million worth of assistance, including food packs, hygiene kits, and sleeping materials to those affected. Furthermore, the situation has also necessitated the evacuation of livestock, with local officials designating specific areas for animal shelter. The municipal government has acted swiftly to assist farmers in relocating their livestock, although some have resorted to panic selling, drastically lowering prices to find quick buyers. Compounding the challenges, educational institutions in Bago City have shifted to modular and online instruction effective December 16, as a precautionary measure amidst the ongoing volcanic threats. In-person classes have been suspended, and students are encouraged to remain at home, ensuring their safety during this critical period. As the communities grapple with the implications of the volcanic activity, local officials and task forces continue to work diligently, striving to achieve a full evacuation and mitigate risks. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments and updates likely as the deadline approaches and conditions evolve.