Safety of IDPs Remains Priority, Zero-Casualty Eyed in Kanlaon Crisis

Negros Occidental Aims for zero Casualties Amid Mt. Kanlaon eruption

ensuring the safety of residents displaced by the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon is the top priority of the Philippine government, according to Office of Civil Defense-Western Visayas (OCD-6) Regional Director Raul Fernandez. Speaking at a press briefing at the Negros Occidental provincial Capitol on January 8, 2025, Fernandez emphasized the government’s commitment to a “zero casualty” goal amidst the ongoing crisis.

Ongoing Volcanic Unrest

The eruption, which began on December 9, 2024, prompted the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to raise the volcano’s alert level to 3, indicating the possibility of further explosive eruptions. This led to the evacuation of thousands of residents living within the extended six-kilometer radius permanent danger zone (PDZ) surrounding Mt. Kanlaon.

Displacement and Assistance

As of January 8, 2025, the Department of Social Welfare and Growth (DSWD) reports that 6,370 families, or 20,541 individuals, have been displaced.These individuals are seeking refuge in 34 evacuation centers, wiht relatives, or in othre shelters. La Castellana, a municipality located at the foot of Mt. Kanlaon, has the highest concentration of displaced persons with 2,121 families, or 6,886 individuals, in 11 evacuation centers.

Fernandez acknowledged the challenges in providing adequate food and resources for the displaced population. However, he stressed the importance of remaining cautious, urging residents outside the six-kilometer PDZ but still feeling apprehensive to stay in evacuation centers for thier own safety.

Preparing for a Potential Escalation

With the possibility of the alert level rising to 4, OCD-6 data indicates that the PDZ could be extended to a 10-kilometer radius, impacting an estimated 12,729 families, or 51,570 persons, across seven local government units (LGUs). Fernandez reassured the public that the national government, led by President Ferdinand R.Marcos jr. and Secretary of National defense Gilbert Teodoro, is fully committed to providing support and assistance during this challenging time.

Negros Occidental Prioritizes Zero Casualties Amid Mt.Kanlaon Volcanic Activity

Negros Occidental Governor Maria L. Gonzalez is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of her constituents in the face of increased volcanic activity from Mount Kanlaon.

Government Support and Partnerships

The Philippine government has mobilized critically important resources to aid the province. The Office of the President has provided PHP50 million to Negros Occidental and PHP60 million to Negros Oriental, while the department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has allocated PHP72.431 million for food and non-food items to both provinces. This is part of a larger PHP103.648 million assistance package extended to the seven affected LGUs.

Support has also come from LGUs,non-governmental organizations,and other donors,totaling PHP13.063 million, PHP14.661 million, and PHP3.492 million, respectively. The DSWD also has a standby fund, family food packs stockpile, and prepositioned food and non-food items worth PHP244.379 million, ready for deployment as needed.

A Proactive Approach to Safety

In an exclusive interview with Archyde, Governor Gonzalez emphasized that her top priority is the safety of her citizens. “Our priority is clear: zero casualties,” she stated. Emergency protocols have been activated, and disaster response teams are on full alert.

To achieve this zero-casualty goal, specific measures have been implemented. evacuation zones have been established around the volcano, with residents in high-risk zones already relocated to safer areas equipped with temporary shelters and necessary supplies. daily briefings and facts distribution through local media and community networks ensure everyone is aware of the situation and the necessary steps to take.

Recognizing the importance of dialogue, governor Gonzalez highlighted the efforts made to reach even the most remote communities. mobile teams equipped with satellite communication devices relay real-time updates.

Partnerships with local NGOs and community leaders facilitate grassroots information dissemination, and hotlines have been set up for residents to report concerns or request assistance.

Coordination and Collaboration

Governor Gonzalez stressed the importance of coordination. “We are working closely with national agencies like the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) for continuous monitoring and updates on the volcanic activity,” she said.“we are also coordinating with neighboring provinces to ensure a unified and effective response to this crisis.”

Negros Occidental Governor Prioritizes Safety and Well-Being Amidst Volcanic Threat

Negros Occidental is facing a serious volcanic threat, but Governor Maria L. Gonzalez assures residents that their safety and well-being are paramount. In an exclusive interview with Archyde News, Governor Gonzalez detailed the province’s thorough response plan and emphasized the importance of community resilience.

Coordination and Technical Support

Governor Gonzalez stressed the crucial role of coordination in managing the crisis. “We’re in constant communication with the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Agency and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources,” she explained. “They are providing us with invaluable technical support, including monitoring equipment and expert analysis of volcanic activity. We’re also collaborating with neighboring provinces to ensure a unified response, notably in terms of resource sharing and evacuation logistics.”

Addressing Mental Health Needs

Recognizing the psychological impact of the threat, governor Gonzalez highlighted the inclusion of psychosocial support in the response plan. “This is not just a physical threat, but also an emotional one,” she acknowledged.”We have mental health professionals available at shelters and are conducting community sessions to help residents cope with anxiety and stress. We’re also encouraging communal activities to foster resilience and solidarity.”

A Message of Unity and Hope

As the situation unfolds, Governor Gonzalez offered a message of solidarity and hope to the people of Negros Occidental. “We are in this together,” she declared. “Your safety is our utmost priority, and we are doing everything within our capacity to protect you. Stay informed, cooperate with evacuation protocols, and support one another.”

She also appealed for solidarity from the broader public, stating, “Natural disasters are a challenge for us all, and your prayers and support mean the world to us. Together, we can overcome this.”

Staying Vigilant and Prioritizing Safety

Archyde News commended Governor Gonzalez for her leadership and commitment to the safety of her constituents. The publication pledged to continue monitoring the situation and providing updates to its readers. Governor Gonzalez concluded the interview by thanking Archyde News and reiterating the province’s dedication to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its people.

What specific strategies are being implemented to mitigate the potential impact of ashfall on agriculture and infrastructure in Negros occidental?

Archyde Exclusive Interview: Governor Maria L. gonzalez on Negros occidental’s Zero-Casualty Goal Amid Mt. Kanlaon Eruption

By [Yoru Name], Archyde News editor

Archyde: Governor Gonzalez, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. The situation with Mt. Kanlaon is undoubtedly challenging. Can you share with us how the province is managing the ongoing crisis?

Governor Gonzalez: Thank you for having me. The safety of our people is our utmost priority.Since the eruption began on December 9,2024,we have been working tirelessly to ensure that every resident in the danger zones is evacuated and provided for. Our goal is clear: zero casualties. This means we must remain vigilant, proactive, and collaborative in our efforts.

Archyde: The Philippine institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has raised the alert level to 3, with the possibility of escalation. How is the province preparing for a potential increase in volcanic activity?

Governor Gonzalez: We are closely monitoring PHIVOLCS updates and have contingency plans in place. If the alert level rises to 4, the permanent danger zone (PDZ) will expand to a 10-kilometer radius, affecting over 50,000 individuals across seven LGUs. We are already preparing for this scenario by pre-positioning resources, expanding evacuation centers, and ensuring that our disaster response teams are on full alert.

Archyde: the displacement of over 20,000 individuals is a significant challenge. How is the province addressing the needs of these evacuees?

Governor Gonzalez: It’s a massive undertaking, but we are committed to providing for our displaced residents. Currently, 6,370 families are housed in 34 evacuation centers, with others staying with relatives or in alternative shelters. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has been instrumental in providing food packs, non-food items, and financial assistance. We’ve also received support from NGOs, private donors, and other LGUs, which has been invaluable.

Archyde: What specific measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of those in evacuation centers?

Governor Gonzalez: Our evacuation centers are equipped with basic necessities, including food, water, hygiene kits, and medical supplies. We’ve also set up mobile health clinics to address the medical needs of evacuees,particularly the elderly,children,and those with pre-existing conditions. Additionally, we’ve implemented strict health protocols to prevent the spread of diseases in crowded spaces.

Archyde: Communication is critical in times of crisis. How is the province ensuring that all residents, including those in remote areas, are informed and updated?

Governor Gonzalez: We’ve established a robust communication network to reach every corner of the province. Daily briefings are conducted through local media, and our mobile teams equipped with satellite communication devices are deployed to remote communities. We’ve also partnered with local NGOs and community leaders to facilitate grassroots information dissemination. Hotlines have been set up for residents to report concerns or request assistance.

Archyde: The national government has provided significant financial support. How is this being utilized to address the crisis?

Governor Gonzalez: The PHP50 million allocated to Negros Occidental, along with the PHP72.431 million from the DSWD, is being used to fund evacuation efforts, provide relief goods, and support disaster response operations. We’ve also received additional contributions from NGOs and private donors, which have been crucial in supplementing government resources.

Archyde: Looking ahead, what are your key priorities as the situation evolves?

Governor Gonzalez: Our priorities remain unchanged: ensuring the safety of our people and achieving zero casualties.We will continue to monitor the situation closely, prepare for potential escalations, and provide for those affected. Collaboration with the national government, LGUs, NGOs, and the private sector will be critical in the coming weeks.

Archyde: what message would you like to share with the residents of Negros Occidental during this challenging time?

Governor Gonzalez: To the people of Negros Occidental, I want to assure you that your safety is our top priority. We are doing everything in our power to protect you and provide for your needs. Please remain vigilant, follow the guidance of local authorities, and take care of one another. Together, we will overcome this crisis.

Archyde: Thank you, Governor Gonzalez, for your time and insights. We wish you and the people of Negros Occidental strength and resilience during this tough period.

Governor Gonzalez: Thank you. We are grateful for the support and solidarity of the entire nation.

End of Interview

For more updates on the Mt. Kanlaon eruption and its impact, stay tuned to Archyde.