Cops tasked to continue assistance to residents affected by Kanlaon rumbling
Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered the mobilization of all available assets to provide immediate relief and security to communities in Negros Island Region (NIR) that are still reeling from the continuous unrest of Kanlaon Volcano.
Kanlaon is still under Alert Level 2 and recent monitoring recorded five volcanic earthquakes and a staggering emission of 2,880 tons of sulfur dioxide on Saturday alone.
The resulting ashfall has already blanketed more than 133 villages across the region.
“Our priority will always be the safety of all our affected kababayan. Our personnel will also continue coordinating with local authorities to address the needs of communities affected by the volcano’s eruption,” said Nartatez.
He said policemen on the ground are continuously coordinating with local authorities to address the needs of communities affected by the volcanic activity.
Due to the continuing activity, entry into the four-kilometer-radius Permanent Danger Zone around the volcano remains prohibited.
Local government units have enforced preemptive measures to prevent residents from entering high-risk areas.
Nartatez said police officers have been tasked to assist local government units in strictly enforcing this restriction, adding that public safety remains the top priority while volcanic unrest persists.
He said police officers from nearby areas are on standby in case additional reinforcements are needed.