In response to the ongoing ash emissions from Mt. Kanlaon and the potential increase in the alert level from 3 to 4, the City Government of Canlaon, the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental, and partner agencies are proactively preparing for a possible eruption by implementing an evacuation plan.
With a population of approximately 60,000, the city has collaborated with the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental to strategically identify local government units within the 1st district of Negros Oriental as evacuation camps. The selected municipalities include Ayungon, Jimalalud, Tayasan, Vallerhermoso, La Libertad, Bindoy, and Guihulngan City to ensure enough evacuation camps are in place for the safety and well-being of the residents.
Engr. Judith J. Artigas, head of Canlaon City Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (LDRRMO), led the ocular visit in the municipality of Bindoy together with Janefe Baal from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and Jocelyn Balansag, the Camp Coordinator for DSWD 7 QRT 3. The local government unit (LGU) of Bindoy has identified six evacuation camps strategically located near health stations, daycare centers, and water sources, which are essential for effective evacuation. Engr. Judith stated, “These identified camps are, in my opinion, very well-situated, but they will still need to be evaluated and approved by the Incident Management Team.”
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the agency responsible for Camp Coordination and Camp Management and the Protection of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), dispatched the DSWD Quick Response Team (QRT) Camp Coordinator Balansag to assess potential evacuation sites. Balansag highlighted the importance of thoroughly evaluating the safety and location of the camps.
Balansag added that the key considerations include the storage of family food packs and space for women and children, along with many other essential factors that contribute to the camp’s effectiveness.
“Laban lang, naa rami sa inyong luyo andam mo suporta (Don’t worry, we are, ready to support),” assures Bindoy Mayor Eniego C. Jabagat during the courtesy visit of the team.
It has been almost two months since the eruption on December 9. The DSWD, LGU, and partner agencies have worked tirelessly to provide food, safety, and security to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the evacuation camps. However, the possibility of heightened alert has increased concerns among the people of Canlaon City and its neighboring towns.
Mayor Jose Chubasco B. Cardenas of Canlaon City expressed his gratitude to everyone who extended help and is ready to support the town now that they are in a very vulnerable situation. ###
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