The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of the Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park is seeking clearance from Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla to dredge rivers and creeks within the volcano’s protected area that have been affected by hardened lahar.
Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Negros Island Region, said the waterways in La Castellana and La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, need to be cleared of hardened lahar to prevent flooding that could endanger low-lying communities.
“The situation is dangerous,” he said, adding that this was discussed during Monday’s meeting with PAMB and DENR officials and a resolution requesting permission to dredge was passed .
“It’s dangerous if it rains heavily because the waterways are full,” Gerangaya warned.
Gerangaya said they have requested the Mines and Geosciences Bureau to assess the volume of hardened lahar to be removed. .
In some rivers, solidified lahar is almost level with the riverbanks, he said.
A clearance is needed from the DENR secretary because the rivers and creeks to be dredged are within the protected area of the Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park, he said.*