The low pressure area (LPA) that formed in east of Mindanao may trigger rains which could increase the risk of lahar flow in Negros Island following the explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said Tuesday, Dec. 17.

The LPA was spotted 155 kilometers east-southeast of Tagum City, Davao del Norte, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Director Raul Fernandez, head of the OCD in Western Visayas (Region 6), said the province of Negros Occidental is particularly vulnerable to lahar flow and other volcanic hazards.

He said among the areas expected to be affected include Bago City, La Carlota City, Pontevedra, Pulupandan, San Enrique, Valladolid, Binalbagan, Himamaylan City, Hinigaran, Isabela, La Castellana, and Moises Padilla (Magallon). 

“In total, 162 barangays across these 13 municipalities are at risk, endangering approximately 644,487 residents, based on the 2020 census,” he noted.

The OCD said it was preparing for the “worst case scenario” which could include another violent eruption resulting in widespread ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava flows.

“Emergency plans are being developed to facilitate rapid evacuations, establish additional temporary shelters, and ensure the distribution of essential supplies to affected populations,” the OCD stated.

As of Dec. 17, there were around 17,200 individuals or 5,200 families that were displaced by the Dec. 9 eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.

Meanwhile, the Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (IACC) has urged media outlets to respect privacy rights of the victims of the volcanic eruption, especially the children.

It emphasized that images of the young victims “should not be published without parental consent.” 

“This appeal reflects a commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations during this crisis,” the IACC said.