Photo credit: Irish Casag

In the wake of an explosive eruption that lasted approximately six minutes, Mount Kanlaon, situated in the heart of Canlaon City, continues to exhibit heightened volcanic activity. The latest observations indicate a surge in seismicity, ground deformation, and gas emissions, prompting authorities to raise the alert level to 2.

Key Statistics:
- Alert Level: Raised to Level 2
- Status Alert Level: Increasing Activity
- Eruption: 1 explosive eruption, lasting 6 minutes
- Volcanic Earthquake: 43 volcanic earthquakes recorded
- Sulfur Dioxide Flux (SO2): 797 tons per day (as of June 2, 2024)
- Plume (Steaming): Soaring to 5000 meters, with vigorous emissions drifting towards the southwest and southeast.
- Ground Deformation: Significant swelling observed.

Evacuation and Affected Population

As of 7:50 AM this morning, the affected population stands at alarming numbers. According to reports from the Office of Civil Defense, four barangays—Malaiba, Pula, Masulog, and Linothangan—bear the brunt of the eruption's impact.

- Barangay Pula: 32 households, totaling 143 individuals
-Barangay Masulog: 48 families, comprising 239 individuals
- Barangay Linothangan: 2 families, totaling 12 individuals
- Barangay Malaiba: 1 family, 3 individuals

This brings the total affected families to 81, encompassing 397 individuals. Presently, 155 individuals from 47 households seek shelter in evacuation centers, while others have sought refuge with relatives within Canlaon City.

Assessment of Affected Areas

Preliminary data reveals the extensive impact on surrounding barangays:

- Barangay Pula: 5,425 individuals affected
- Barangay Masulog: 6,122 individuals affected
- Barangay Malaiba: 4,224 individuals affected
- Barangay Lumapao: 3,601 individuals affected
- Barangay Linothangan: 4,230 individuals affected

The total population affected is 23,622, representing 40.15% of Kanlaon City's total population of 52,822.


Mayor Jose Chubasco "Batchuk'' Cardenas, in a local disaster risk reduction and management (LDRRM) meeting on Tuesday, highlighted the gravity of the situation. Considering the scale of devastation, authorities are contemplating recommending a declaration of a state of calamity.