The Department of Tourism (DOT) has suspended tourism activities in several areas of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon earlier this week.
In a public advisory, the DOT advised travelers to avoid the six-kilometer permanent danger zone and areas affected by heavy ashfall.
Tourism activities in La Castellana, La Carlota City, Bago City, and Murcia in Negros Occidental, as well as Canlaon City in Negros Oriental, have been halted, including trekking, swimming, farm visits, and day tours.
Temporarily closed attractions include Guintubdan Spring, Buenos Aires Resort, Mambukal Resort, Sugar Valley Coffee Farm, Kanlaon Inland Resort and Eco-Tourism, Padudusan Falls, Bao-bao Viewing Deck, and Quipot Falls. Local authorities are strictly enforcing these measures to ensure public safety.
The DOT clarified that there have been no reports of injuries, fatalities, or stranded tourists but continues to urge travelers to stay vigilant and follow advisories from local government units (LGUs), disaster response teams, and DOT Regional Offices.
Tourism stakeholders in the affected areas have reported disruptions due to ashfall, with the DOT working closely with local authorities to minimize the impact on the sector.
For assistance during this period, the agency said its call center at 151-TOUR (8687) will be available 24/7 to provide reliable information and support for all tourism-related concerns.
“The DOT prioritizes the safety of all tourists and local communities and encourages everyone to remain vigilant and informed during this time,” it said.