BACOLOD CITY – Three local government units (LGUs) in Negros Island suspended classes on Friday, Feb. 20, after Kanlaon Volcano erupted on Thursday, Feb. 19.
Mayor Jose Luis Jalandoni suspended classes on all levels in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, until further notice, for the health and safety of students, faculty, and school personnel from the ashfall and sulfuric odors currently affecting several barangays in the city.
La Carlota City Disaster Council members convened on Thursday to discuss collaborative action in response to Kanlaon.
Mayor Añejo Nicor also cancelled classes on all levels in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, upon the recommendation of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the La Castellana Incident Management Team during their emergency meeting on Thursday.
The suspension of work in private offices, businesses, and non-government establishments in the town was left to the discretion of management.
In Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas suspended the classes as a preventive measure and encouraged people to pack their Go Bags and ensure their family is alert and prepared.
The city government deployed rescue vehicles and prepared emergency response teams for possible evacuation.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said that they are closely monitoring the situation as ashfall and other indirect effects may reach the city depending on wind conditions.
He encouraged the people of Bacolod to remain vigilant. Those with respiratory conditions, senior citizens, pregnant women, and children were advised to take precautions should ashfall occur, including wearing masks and limiting outdoor exposure.