THE Kanlaon Volcano erupted explosively at 3:03 PM today, prompting swift emergency evacuation efforts to safeguard thousands of families in nearby areas.
The eruption, which sent a volcanic plume towering 3,000 meters above the summit and unleashed pyroclastic flows down the southeastern slopes, led authorities to elevate the alert level from Level 2 to Level 3, signaling an increased risk of hazardous volcanic activity.
An emergency meeting convened this afternoon, chaired by Asec. Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, saw the participation of officials from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), and other key agencies. Defense Secretary and NDRRMC Chairman Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. has directed immediate evacuation efforts to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
Evacuations Underway
Residents within a six-kilometer radius of the volcano—estimated at around 54,000 individuals from Regions 6 and 7—are being evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Authorities are prioritizing the safe relocation of 20,000 residents from 12 barangays in Region 6, with contingency plans in place should the alert level rise to Level 4.
Asec. Alejandro underscored the importance of executing contingency plans efficiently, with the reactivation of the Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (IACC).
The IACC includes representatives from the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to ensure coordinated relief efforts.
Assistance has also been requested from the Philippine Navy for floating assets to support evacuation and response operations.
Ongoing Coordination and Response
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Regions 6 and 7 is closely monitoring the situation. In Region 7, the OCD and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) have raised a Blue Alert Status, signifying heightened readiness.
Local authorities in Canlaon City are working closely with the OCD, disaster response clusters, and the Local Chief Executive (LCE) to disseminate timely advisories and information. Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) are being activated, and additional personnel are being deployed to assist in managing the crisis.
Preparedness for Worst-Case Scenario
Authorities are preparing for a potential escalation of the crisis, with PHIVOLCS warning of the possibility of further hazardous activity. Communities are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to advisories issued by local officials to ensure their safety.
Further updates will be released as the situation unfolds. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and cooperate with evacuation and safety measures.