BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas has prohibited private parties and gatherings within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and ordered the suspension of public social activities in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental while Kanlaon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3.

Cardenas, in an executive order, noted that large gatherings, social events, and similar activities can compromise the evacuation process, endanger lives, and divert resources critical for disaster response and emergency management, as the PDZ has been declared as a high-risk area that necessitates mandatory evacuation and strict control of all activities to ensure public safety.

The EO stated that all forms of private parties, gatherings, or celebrations, including, but not limited to, weddings, birthday celebrations, and reunions, drinking sessions or social meetups, and recreational activities such as picnics or outings are strictly prohibited within the  area.

Establishments found hosting prohibited events or activities shall be penalized in accordance with local ordinances, including potential suspension of permits or licenses.

All public social activities are also suspended until further notice, including, but not limited to, community festivals and parades, public concerts and performances, night markets and food bazaars, sports tournaments, and recreational events. Exceptions may be granted for activities critical to disaster response or those authorized by the Incident Command System (ICS).

Cardenas warned that violators shall be subjected to penalties as prescribed by applicable laws and ordinances.

The Canlaon City Police Station, in coordination with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), barangay officials, and other relevant agencies, shall monitor compliance.