MANILA – The eruption of Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Island has prompted the Department of National Defense (DND) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to intensify their focus on public safety, with officials stressing the importance of evacuation compliance to prevent further risks.
DND secretary and NDRRMC chair Gilberto Teodoro Jr. announced the deployment of essential supplies, including 1,000 tents, bottled water, and portable toilets, to support affected families in Negros.
However, Teodoro emphasized that community cooperation remains critical.
“Residents must strictly follow evacuation orders and avoid re-entering the 6-kilometer danger zone around Mt. Kanlaon,” Teodoro said, citing the potential dangers posed by further volcanic activity.
In addition to resource mobilization, the government is prioritizing the establishment of temporary evacuation sites to accommodate displaced families effectively.
Monday’s eruption has also disrupted transportation, with the Iloilo Airport temporarily closed that day due to ashfall.
Teodoro reassured the public that seaports remain operational, ensuring continuity in essential logistics and travel.
Amid these challenges, the DND and NDRRMC are actively preparing for worst-case scenarios, including the possibility of rainfall exacerbating the ashfall situation. Teodoro noted, however, that the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has not forecast any imminent rainfall in the affected areas.
“Our priority is the safety and well-being of those impacted,” Teodoro said, underscoring the government’s commitment to proactive disaster management.
The NDRRMC continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide timely updates to ensure public awareness and preparedness as the situation unfolds. (With a report from the Philippine News Agency)/PN
