BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas has ordered the mandatory evacuation of residents within the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) due to heightened seismic activity of Kanlaon Volcano in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.

MAYOR Jose Chubasco Cardenas holds an emergency operation meeting with concerned agencies regarding the heightened seismic activity of Kanlaon Volcano in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental on Tuesday, September 10. (Salta Canlaon Official)
Cardenas issued Executive Order No. 63 on Tuesday, September 10, after holding an emergency operation meeting with concerned agencies regarding the recent volcanic earthquakes that occurred in Canlaon City.
The EO stated that the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported on late Monday night, September 9, increased seismic activity at Kanlaon Volcano with the risk of a possible eruption that could endanger lives and properties.
Alert Level 2 is currently in effect over the volcano and volcanic activity may lead to pyroclastic flows, ashfall, and other hazards, posing an immediate threat to residents within the PDZ, the EO said.
The mandatory evacuation was imposed to ensure the safety and protection of residents in vulnerable areas, Cardenas said.
An assessment has been made to prioritize the safety of residents living within the PDZ in coordination with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and other local authorities.
The CDRRMO was tasked to facilitate the safe and orderly transfer of residents to designated evacuation centers located outside the danger zone.
The local government assured that they will provide food, water, medicines, and other necessities in evacuation centers.
Barangay officials and relevant agencies shall provide transportation and necessary assistance for the evacuation of affected residents.
The Canlaon City police and other law enforcement agencies were directed to assist in the enforcement of the evacuation order and ensure that no unauthorized persons enter the evacuated areas within the PDZ.
The local government, in close coordination with Phivolcs and national agencies, will continuously monitor the situation.
The volcano last erupted in June, displacing thousands of residents in the city and neighboring localities in Negros Occidental.