IN a decisive effort to support communities affected by the recent eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has released ₱30 million each to Canlaon City and the Province of Negros Oriental.
Special Assistant to the President, Secretary Antonio Lagdameo Jr., formally handed over the funds during a meeting today with local officials and disaster management representatives.
The meeting was attended by Negros Oriental Congressman Chiquiting Sagarbarria, Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, Canlaon City Mayor Batchuk Cardenas, and Director Joel Erestain of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Central Visayas, who also serves as Vice Chairperson of the Regional Task Force Kanlaon.
The Province of Negros Occidental has already declared a State of Calamity, while Negros Oriental faces legal hurdles in making a similar declaration. Current laws require at least two cities or municipalities to be affected for such a proclamation.
Canlaon City, which reported that it could sustain Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) for only three to four days, highlighted the urgency of additional national government assistance. The city recommended that further allocations focus on six affected local government units (LGUs). Relief efforts have been hindered by poor communication due to low signal bandwidth and the rapid depletion of the Quick Response Fund (QRF).
Director Erestain welcomed the timely intervention, calling it “an early Christmas gift” from the President. “This funding will significantly ease the burdens of those affected by the Kanlaon eruption, especially the IDPs who will spend the holiday season in evacuation centers. It is a crucial step in ensuring our communities receive the support they need during this challenging time,” he said.
The OCD Central Office has also increased its fuel allocation for Canlaon City’s QRF to ₱1 million per month. This will provide approximately 4,450 liters of gasoline and 13,350 liters of diesel for relief operations, including transportation, clearing operations, and generator use.
With the national government’s support, local officials and responders aim to enhance relief efforts and ensure that affected residents receive essential care and assistance as the region navigates the ongoing challenges posed by volcanic activity.