The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) is now in full alert status following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon on Monday, Dec. 9.
NOCPPO Director Col. Rainerio De Chavez said on Tuesday that the police are now on alert status to readily respond to the calamity.
He said that the police personnel are now helping the families affected by the eruption while they are coordinating with the local government units to ensure public safety.
De Chavez also urged the public to follow evacuation protocols.
De Chavez also told affected police officers to secure first their families who are living within the 6-kilometer radius of Mt. Kanlaon.
Meanwhile, La Castellana Police Cheif Maj. Rhojn Darell Nigos said that they are continuing their pre-emptive evacuation of residents in affected barangays.
The local police are also distributing face masks to the evacuees while they secure the evacuation centers, he added.
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The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Visayas Command (Viscom) has placed its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) teams on high alert following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon.
Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, Viscom commander, said disaster response teams, particularly those stationed on Negros Island, are on standby and ready to assist residents living near the volcano.
“Our mobility assets are also on standby to ensure a swift and effective response when needed,” Reyeg said. “In times of crisis, our resolve to support and safeguard our communities is unwavering. We urge everyone to stay vigilant and adhere to the advisories and instructions from local authorities.”
The military units in Negros Island are coordinating closely with local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) to mitigate risks posed by the eruption.
Reyeg underscored the importance of synchronized disaster response efforts.
“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our people. Together, we can overcome this challenge and emerge stronger and more resilient,” he said.*PNA