By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY – Some internally displaced persons (IDPs) in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, temporarily housed in school-based evacuation centers, have been advised to return home by June 13.
These evacuees reside outside the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) near Kanlaon Volcano.
During a meeting Tuesday at the city’s Social Hall, the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Council recommended to Mayor Rex Jalando-on, the council chair, that the IDPs be permitted to return to their homes.
The move aims to allow the full resumption of in-person classes.
The recommendation affects 257 families, or 890 individuals, from Sitios Bais, Batacon and Labinsawan in Barangay Yubo, as well as Sitios Nailab and Tinin-awan in Barangay Ara-al.
These families have been sheltering for nearly six months at La Carlota South Elementary School II, La Carlota North Elementary School and La Carlota City College-Cubay Campus.
Their presence has forced schools to limit face-to-face classes to just two days a week.
The recommendation comes amid increasing calls from educators, parents and students to restore regular school operations ahead of the June 16 class opening.
With the planned decampment, the DRRM Council expects schools to return to full in-person learning by June 16.
The transition is expected to benefit both enrolled students and displaced learners who can now rejoin formal classes.
Mayor Jalando-on assured residents that steps are being taken to ensure a smooth and safe return for both students and displaced families.
Meanwhile, 62 families, or 226 individuals, from Sitio Guintubdan in Barangay Ara-al—which lies within the six-kilometer PDZ—will be transferred to the City Evacuation Center.
This relocation aims to maintain their safety.
The city government reaffirmed its commitment to support both those returning home and those who still require temporary shelter.
Officials emphasized a compassionate and balanced recovery approach.
