Impacts on Affected Populations
The recent volcanic eruptions at Mt. Kanlaon have caused widespread displacement and challenges for residents across multiple barangays. As of December 26, 2024, the eruption has affected 11,883 families (45,526 individuals) in 32 barangays in Regions VI and VII.
Evacuees:
Inside evacuation centers: 4,454 families (14,186 individuals).
Outside evacuation centers: 2,185 families (6,953 individuals).
Communication Status
SMART Telecom’s communication services, initially reported disrupted, were restored and confirmed to be unrelated to the volcanic activity.
Agricultural Losses
The agricultural sector in Region VI sustained substantial damage, with total losses estimated at PHP 33,554,721.59.
Affected: 830 farmers and fisherfolk.
Damaged areas: 34.54 hectares (completely destroyed), 263.51 hectares (partially damaged but recoverable).
Suspension of Classes and Work
Classes suspended: 17 across Regions VI and VII.
Work suspensions: 2 in the affected regions.
State of Calamity Declarations
Province-wide: Negros Occidental and Canlaon City (Negros Oriental).
Municipality: Vallehermoso.
Aid and Assistance
Families needing aid: 9,571 (100% assistance provided).
Cost of assistance: PHP 123,691,278.86 (families); PHP 364,000.00 (support to LGUs and regional agencies).
Key Actions Taken by Agencies
- NDRRMOC
Raised alert status to BLUE.
Formed a Regional Task Force and Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell.
Continuous monitoring and coordination with regional offices.
- DILG
Activated emergency operations and disaster monitoring systems.
Disseminated advisories and evacuation priorities.
- DSWD
Prepositioned PHP 31.96M in Quick Response Funds and 261,018 Family Food Packs.
Additional FNIs worth PHP 873.13M ready for distribution.
- PHIVOLCS
Regular bulletins and press briefings.
Ongoing volcano activity monitoring.
- DENR
Air quality monitoring and geohazard assessments.
- DOH
Issued health advisories and ensured health logistics delivery.
- Department of Agriculture
Damage assessments and preparedness advisories for farmers.
- DepEd
Implemented the Dynamic Learning Program for education continuity.
- BFP
Flushing operations, road cleaning, and water provision to evacuation centers.
As the volcanic activity at Mt. Kanlaon evolves, local and national agencies continue to provide coordinated support to affected communities. Monitoring and response efforts remain a priority to mitigate the eruption’s long-term impacts on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.