Relocation of Kanlaon evacuees eyed

BACOLOD CITY — A permanent relocation site is needed as long-term solution for residents affected by the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.

This was stressed by Negros Occidental Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer who said putting the residents living inside the volcano's danger zone in evacuation centers is only a band-aid solution.

"We need to find them a permanent relocation site to ensure their safety," the vice governor said.

Ferrer also pointed out that the disaster funds of local government units are depleting and needs the support of the national government to continue feeding the evacuees, most of whom have been staying in government shelters since the Dec. 9, 2024 eruption of Kanlaon.

Earlier, Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said the prolonged stay of evacuees in temporary facilities had placed "a heavy burden on both the local government units and the surrounding communities, making the swift response from Malacañang all the more appreciated."

Lacson said these families will remain in evacuation centers unless the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) lowers the alert level at Kanlaon and says it is safe for residents to return to their homes.

Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3 due to high volcanic unrest, with experts warning of potential hazardous eruptions.

Phivolcs has recommended that communities within a six-kilometer permanent danger zone be evacuated due to the threat of pyroclastic density currents, ballistic projectiles, rockfalls, ashfall and other volcanic hazards from the volcano.

There are 1,763 families with 5,678 members from La Castellana town and the cities of La Carlota and Bago who are currently staying in evacuation centers.

Data from the Disaster Response Management Unit of the Department of Social Welfare and Development showed that as of April 18, the eruption of Kanlaon has affected 29 barangay (villages) in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.