The local government of Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, is on high alert following Monday’s rainfall, which has heightened concerns about a possible lahar flow from Mt. Kanlaon.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of residents.
Proactive Measures in Place
Rainfall has raised the risk of lahar—a dangerous mix of volcanic ash and water—posing a potential threat to nearby communities.
However, local officials have noted that current wind patterns are pushing volcanic ash westward, sparing major populated areas from immediate danger.
Edna Lhou Masicampo, the city’s information officer-designate, reassured the public that precautionary measures are well underway. “We have trucks, logistics, and staff ready to respond to any emergencies,” she said, emphasizing the local government’s preparedness.
Exhausted Frontliners
To bolster its disaster response capabilities, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) is conducting training sessions for additional camp managers on Wednesday and Thursday. This move aims to relieve the 93 existing camp managers, who have been on duty since Dec. 9, following Mt. Kanlaon’s eruption.
“Our camp managers are already exhausted,” Masicampo noted, highlighting the importance of the additional personnel to maintain efficient operations at evacuation centers.
Currently, 1,398 families—equivalent to 4,497 individuals—are taking refuge in 10 evacuation centers across the city. Local authorities continue to monitor conditions while ensuring evacuees receive adequate support and assistance.
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