The Office of Civil Defense Central Visayas on Friday, Jan. 10, welcomed the Negros Oriental State of Calamity declaration following the Mount Kanlaon eruption.
The Negros Oriental Sagguniang Panlalawigan passed Resolution No. 1329 on Dec. 27, 2024 to declare the province under a state of calamity, highlighting the urgent need for disaster preparedness and community support amid the ongoing volcanic activity.
Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria on January 8 signed Resolution No. 1329, which deemed it officially approved.
“This crucial decision, made by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, not only aids the evacuees within Canlaon City but also empowers neighboring local government units (LGUs) to prepare for a potential influx of displaced residents,” the OCD said.
Joel Erestain, OCD Central Visayas Director and Vice Chair of Task Force Kanlaon, in a Facebook post emphasized the importance of the declaration.
“We recognize that this State of Calamity will facilitate the immediate provision of resources and support to those affected. It is essential for both Canlaon City and surrounding areas to be prepared as we anticipate the activation of Oplan EXODUS,” he said.
The eruption on Dec. 9, 2024, resulted in significant ashfall and the generation of hazardous pyroclastic flows, prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to raise the Kanlaon alert level to three.
As a result, the Permanent Danger Zone was expanded to a six-kilometer radius, requiring mandatory evacuations.
Erestain said “The declaration not only assists in immediate evacuations but also enhances the readiness of neighboring municipalities. Our coordination with local officials is crucial to ensure that we can effectively manage the situation should Canlaon City’s Oplan EXODUS be activated.”
The OCD Central Visayas is working closely with local government units to ensure that adequate measures are in place, he said.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents impacted by this natural disaster. Our focus is on providing timely assistance and resources to support the evacuation efforts,” Erestain added.*