REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Mass Evacuation Almost Complete As Kanlaon Volcano Eruption Forces Thousands To Safety
Photo courtesy from PTV
The recent eruption of Mount Kanlaon has prompted an all-hands-on-deck response from authorities, with the Regional Task Force Kanlaon now reporting that mass evacuation efforts are nearing completion.
When the volcano erupted explosively on December 9, 2024, sending shockwaves across Negros Island, PHIVOLCS quickly raised the alert level to 3, marking its most significant activity in over two decades.
Residents Moved to Safety
As of December 17, the efforts to move residents out of harm’s way have been largely successful. In Negros Occidental, all residents within the 6-kilometer Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) have been safely evacuated. Meanwhile, Canlaon City in Negros Oriental reports 98% completion, with the last few families being guided to safety.
So far, the eruption has displaced a staggering 15,093 individuals (4,757 families), who are now taking shelter in 29 evacuation centers across Regions VI and VII. An additional 694 families have found refuge with relatives and friends.
To support evacuees, the government has rolled out over ₱36.2 million in humanitarian assistance, with help from the DSWD, local government units, and various NGOs.
School Closures and the Education Response
The eruption hasn’t just impacted homes but also disrupted education. Around 860 schools across Regions VI and VII have been affected, leaving 417,528 learners in limbo. However, the Department of Education (DepEd) has stepped in with solutions like the Dynamic Learning Program and alternative delivery modes to keep education going. Students and teachers are also receiving emergency kits to help them cope.
Safety First: What’s Being Done
To ensure public safety, tourist spots within the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) have been completely shut down. Public transport routes have been rerouted to avoid risky areas, and face masks are being distributed to evacuees and locals to protect against ashfall.
Authorities, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local LGUs, are also laser-focused on food distribution and security in evacuation centers.
Prepared for Power Disruptions
One major concern now is power and infrastructure. The Department of Energy (DOE) has warned that heavy ashfall could affect power lines, leading to possible blackouts if the situation escalates. In response, they’re coordinating closely with local power cooperatives to minimize disruptions.
To add another layer of preparedness, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is working to ensure evacuation centers have enough power to handle the growing number of evacuees.
Indigenous Communities and Ongoing Efforts
Despite the progress, some challenges remain. Authorities are working to evacuate around 1,000 Indigenous Peoples who are still within the EDZ. Meanwhile, the Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (IACC), chaired by Director Raul E. Fernandez, is on high alert, especially as Christmas approaches and tourist numbers are expected to rise.
When the volcano erupted explosively on December 9, 2024, sending shockwaves across Negros Island, PHIVOLCS quickly raised the alert level to 3, marking its most significant activity in over two decades.
Residents Moved to Safety
As of December 17, the efforts to move residents out of harm’s way have been largely successful. In Negros Occidental, all residents within the 6-kilometer Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) have been safely evacuated. Meanwhile, Canlaon City in Negros Oriental reports 98% completion, with the last few families being guided to safety.
So far, the eruption has displaced a staggering 15,093 individuals (4,757 families), who are now taking shelter in 29 evacuation centers across Regions VI and VII. An additional 694 families have found refuge with relatives and friends.
To support evacuees, the government has rolled out over ₱36.2 million in humanitarian assistance, with help from the DSWD, local government units, and various NGOs.
School Closures and the Education Response
The eruption hasn’t just impacted homes but also disrupted education. Around 860 schools across Regions VI and VII have been affected, leaving 417,528 learners in limbo. However, the Department of Education (DepEd) has stepped in with solutions like the Dynamic Learning Program and alternative delivery modes to keep education going. Students and teachers are also receiving emergency kits to help them cope.
Safety First: What’s Being Done
To ensure public safety, tourist spots within the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) have been completely shut down. Public transport routes have been rerouted to avoid risky areas, and face masks are being distributed to evacuees and locals to protect against ashfall.
Authorities, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local LGUs, are also laser-focused on food distribution and security in evacuation centers.
Prepared for Power Disruptions
One major concern now is power and infrastructure. The Department of Energy (DOE) has warned that heavy ashfall could affect power lines, leading to possible blackouts if the situation escalates. In response, they’re coordinating closely with local power cooperatives to minimize disruptions.
To add another layer of preparedness, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is working to ensure evacuation centers have enough power to handle the growing number of evacuees.
Indigenous Communities and Ongoing Efforts
Despite the progress, some challenges remain. Authorities are working to evacuate around 1,000 Indigenous Peoples who are still within the EDZ. Meanwhile, the Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (IACC), chaired by Director Raul E. Fernandez, is on high alert, especially as Christmas approaches and tourist numbers are expected to rise.
Dec 17, 2024
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