By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY – The Office of Civil Defense Region 6 (OCD-6) is preparing for a possible explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano, which could occur at any time, according to OCD-6 Regional Director Raul Fernandez.
Fernandez told the Daily Guardian on Thursday that the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has observed magma slowly rising inside the volcano.
“There is a gradual and slow ascent of magma,” Fernandez said. “We can’t tell when it will erupt, but it is just a matter of time.”
He added that Canlaon City Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas’ Oplan Exodus, which outlines the evacuation of all city residents, is part of the preparations for a worst-case scenario involving a potentially explosive eruption.
Canlaon City, located only 11.5 kilometers from the volcano’s crater, is at high risk in the event of such an eruption.
If the situation escalates, the Kanlaon Volcano Alert Level may be raised to Level 4, Fernandez said.
Kanlaon Volcano continues to emit ash and has recorded 26 volcanic earthquakes, further indicating activity within the volcano.
“We are preparing for the worst, but we are hoping it won’t happen,” Fernandez emphasized.
An eruption larger than the December 9, 2024 event could endanger 500,000 people and 13 towns and cities across Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.
Localities at immediate risk include Bago City, La Carlota City, and La Castellana in Negros Occidental, as well as Canlaon City in Negros Oriental.
Face-to-face classes in both public and private schools in these areas have been suspended.
To accommodate evacuees, a tent city is being set up in Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental. Fernandez also requested assistance from other local government units (LGUs) to manage the expected influx of evacuees.
In Negros Occidental, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the Panaad Park and Stadium are ready to house evacuees if needed.
