TASK Force Kanlaon has ordered the mandatory evacuation of families within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) surrounding Mt. Kanlaon on Negros Island, citing heightened volcanic activity.
Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Western Visayas Director Raul Fernandez, who chairs the task force, issued the directive, stressing the urgency of evacuating for residents’ safety.
“The urgency of this order cannot be overstated; families are reminded that evacuating now is crucial for their safety,” the OCD stated.
The affected areas include La Castellana, La Carlota City, Bago City, San Carlos City, and Canlaon City. Officials warned of the potential for a violent eruption that could threaten lives and property.
Local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental were directed to complete evacuations by Dec. 16 following a Dec. 14 meeting.
Protocols for controlled access to the PDZ have been established, allowing entry and exit for essential activities only between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. Barangay officials will work with law enforcement to manage these movements.
The task force called for cooperation from LGUs and community leaders to ensure the evacuation proceeds smoothly, with Fernandez reiterating the priority of safeguarding affected families during this critical time.
