BACOLOD CITY – The city government of Canlaon City in Negros Oriental has imposed curfew, liquor ban, mandatory wearing of face masks, and other safety measures after the Kanlaon Volcano eruption on Monday, Dec. 9.
Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas, in an executive order issued on Monday, said that minors are prohibited in public places after 10 p.m. unless accompanied by a guardian or for emergency purposes. Curfew for minors will be enforced until 5 a.m.
A curfew of 10 p.m. will be imposed in evacuation centers to ensure the safety and security of evacuees. All evacuation center operations will be suspended during this time.
Cardenas said that all establishments in the city were advised to close by 10 p.m. to comply with curfew regulations.
He also said that consumption and sale of alcoholic beverages are prohibited in public places and at any gathering during this period. This measure is intended to reduce health risks and ensure public safety.
He said that the use of face masks is mandated for all individuals when in public places to mitigate respiratory hazards due to elevated sulfur dioxide levels.
The executive order cited a report from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) that an explosive eruption occurred at the summit vent of Kanlaon Volcano, producing a voluminous plume that rapidly rose to 3,000 meters above the vent and drifted west-southwest.
The volcanic emissions of Kanlaon Volcano pose serious health hazards, including respiratory issues and other complications, which necessitate immediate protective measures for all residents.
Cardenas stressed that face masks must be worn at all times when outside the home, particularly in areas with high pedestrian traffic or where ventilation may be limited.
Residents were strongly advised to stay indoors as much as possible, keeping windows and doors closed to prevent the entry of sulfur dioxide.
Cardenas said that schools will remain closed as previously announced, and all classes at all levels are suspended until further notice.
The implementation of the curfew and mandatory face masks shall be strictly enforced and violations may result in penalties as per city regulations.
All law enforcement agencies, barangay officials, and relevant personnel are directed to ensure compliance and assist in the enforcement of safety measures.
Regular inspections and monitoring will be conducted to ensure that face mask usage and curfew regulations are observed.
“We are facing a challenging time, but I am confident in the resilience and cooperation of the people of Canlaon,” Cardenas said, stressing that their safety is the city government’s top priority.
Cardenas urged the people to stay vigilant, comply with the safety directives, and trust the responders and officials who are working tirelessly to address the situation. “Let us remain united in protecting our community,” he said.
Kanlaon last erupted on June 3, displacing thousands of residents in Negros Island.