THE MANDATORY evacuation of over 14,800 residents from the 6-kilometer danger zone of Mount Kanlaon in Negros Island shows that awareness and preparedness are as critical as evacuation orders in saving lives during volcanic eruptions. Despite the clear danger posed by magmatic unrest and the threat of pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), ashfall, and lava flows, initial resistance from residents means there is a need for more public information campaigns.
Mount Kanlaon, now at Alert Level 3, is a sobering reminder of the life-threatening hazards faced by communities living near active volcanoes. Yet, the reluctance of some to evacuate, even with the imminent risk of explosive eruptions, suggests a gap in understanding the peril. It is not uncommon for residents to downplay these risks, prioritizing their homes, livelihoods, or livestock. While such concerns are valid, they should not outweigh the need for safety.
PDCs, for instance, are devastatingly fast and deadly. These superheated flows of gas, ash, and rock can obliterate everything in their path within minutes. Ashfall, too, poses significant risks — damaging crops, contaminating water supplies, and causing respiratory issues. These are not abstract dangers but realities that demand immediate action and preparation.
Public awareness campaigns must emphasize these threats in clear and relatable terms. Authorities should leverage all available platforms — radio, television, social media, and even community meetings — to educate residents about the specific dangers posed by volcanic activity. Regular drills, visual demonstrations, and localized information campaigns can help demystify technical terms like PDCs and lahars, making the risks more tangible and relatable.
The situation in Kanlaon shows the need for consistent and widespread dissemination of information long before volcanic activity escalates. Residents must be aware not only of what to do during an eruption but also why evacuation is necessary. It is not enough to issue warnings or evacuation orders; the message must resonate deeply with communities to strengthen trust in the authorities’ actions.
Local government units and disaster response agencies, such as the Office of Civil Defense Region 6, have made strides in enforcing evacuations and providing essential support in evacuation centers. However, more can be done to ensure that every individual in high-risk areas understands the gravity of volcanic hazards. Tailored campaigns that consider the unique cultural, social, and economic contexts of affected communities can bridge the knowledge gap and reduce resistance to evacuation efforts.
Integrating volcanic hazard education into school curricula in regions near active volcanoes, such as Negros Island, can also instill a culture of preparedness from a young age. By teaching children about the risks and responses associated with volcanic activity, future generations can become advocates for safety and awareness within their families and communities.
Informed communities are safer communities. The more we invest in public awareness, the fewer lives will be at risk when nature’s fury inevitably strikes.
