BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas has ordered the temporary closure of tourist attractions within barangays in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental affected by Kanlaon Volcano until further notice.
These were Kanlaon Inland Resort and Eco-Tourism, Padudusan Falls, Bao-Bao Viewing Deck, and Quipot Falls, including but not limited to Mount Kanlaon National Park, hot springs, hiking trails, and other spots.
Cardenas issued Executive Order (EO) No. 66 stating that the safety of residents, tourists, and the general public is of utmost priority during this period of heightened volcanic activity.
He said that it is necessary to restrict access in the interest of public safety to all tourist areas within and around Canlaon City to prevent any potential harm as Kanlaon Volcano’s seismic activity indicates a possible volcanic unrest that may lead to eruptive activity.
All tourism-related activities, including guided tours, outdoor excursions, and eco-tourism services, were also suspended.
The City Tourism Office shall coordinate with local businesses to ensure the proper dissemination of this information.
Cardenas said that access to the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly prohibited to all persons, including tourists, hikers, and visitors, and violators will be subjected to penalties under existing laws and regulations.
The EO remains in force until the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) deems the threat level at Mount Kanlaon has sufficiently decreased and the area is safe for public access.