The evacuation of Canlaon City residents out of the Kanlaon Volcano danger zone is not “arbitrary detention”, it is to ensure their safety, the city government said in a statement on Tuesday, Jan. 28.
“Evacuation orders are temporary and are issued solely to prevent harm. Speculations about ‘arbitrary detention’ have no basis, as the purpose of these measures is entirely humanitarian and focused on the welfare of the affected communities,” the statement posted on Canlaon City’s Facebook page said.
“We urge the public, including legal professionals, to verify information and avoid spreading misleading statements that may cause confusion during a time when collaboration and vigilance are most needed,” it said.
The evacuation of residents within the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone is a mandate of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and is based on recommendations by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the government agency tasked with monitoring volcanic activity and safeguarding public safety, it said.
It is the responsibility and priority of the local government unit to protect the lives of its citizens during times of heightened risk, it added.
These precautionary measures are not arbitrary but are implemented in accordance with national disaster management protocols, ensuring the safety of residents who may be in danger from potential hazardous eruption, the statement said.
“We call on everyone to unite in prioritizing the safety and well-being of all, and we continue to work closely with OCD, PHIVOLCS, and other agencies to address this situation effectively,” the statement said.
Canlaon City has 6,707 evacuees.*