Canlaon City Evacuates Residents Amid Mt. Kanlaon Eruption: Health Supplies Provided
Ashfall Forces Evacuations as Mt. Kanlaon Erupts in Negros Oriental
Canlaon City,Philippines – The eruption of Mt. Kanlaon on Monday sent a plume of ash into the air, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of residents from high-risk areas in Negros Oriental.As of Tuesday morning, 146 families, totaling 476 individuals, were seeking refuge in evacuation centers in Canlaon City.
The provincial Health Office (PHO) is mobilizing resources to ensure the well-being of those affected. Dr. Liland Estacion, PHO chief, confirmed that the office had preemptively positioned face masks and goggles in the area following an earlier eruption in June.
“We still need to assess the current situation and identify the specific needs of our clients,” Dr. Estacion said. “But rest assured, their health and medical needs will be addressed.”
The PHO is preparing to send additional supplies, including N95 masks to combat ashfall, water treatment tablets, jerry cans, medicines, nebulizers, and nebules. Two ambulances, equipped with an ambulatory testing machine to check water sources for safety, have already been dispatched to Canlaon City.
Evacuees, primarily from the barangays of Masulog and Pula, which fall within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone, are currently housed at the Macario Española Memorial School and Jose B. Cardenas Memorial High School. Four additional families, comprising 12 individuals, have also evacuated but are not staying in designated centers.
Edna Lhou Masicampo, Canlaon City’s information officer-designate, confirmed the evacuation numbers and emphasized the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.The PHO continues to monitor the situation closely and is working in coordination with local officials to provide necessary health and safety support to those affected by the eruption.
Q&A with Dr.Estacion: Prioritizing Health Amidst Mt. Kanlaon Ashfall
NewsDirect3.com: Dr. Estacion, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. Can you tell us about the Provincial Health Office’s response to the Mt. Kanlaon eruption and the subsequent evacuations?
Dr. Liland Estacion: The PHO has preemptively positioned resources, including face masks and goggles, in the area following the eruption in June.
NewsDirect3.com: What are the immediate health concerns for evacuees exposed to ashfall?
Dr. Liland Estacion: We are sending N95 masks to combat ash inhalation, water treatment tablets to ensure safe drinking water, jerry cans for water storage, and medicines, nebulizers, and nebules to address respiratory issues.
NewsDirect3.com: What about the long-term health impacts of prolonged ash exposure?
Dr. Liland Estacion: We are actively assessing the situation. Our focus right now is immediate relief and ensuring access to clean water and respiratory protection. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and address any long-term health concerns as they arise.
NewsDirect3.com: Have you encountered any specific health challenges amongst the evacuees so far?
Dr. liland Estacion:
Our teams are on the ground making initial assessments and providing necessary care. We are prepared to handle any health issues that may arise.
NewsDirect3.com: Do you anticipate any difficulties supplying these resources to those in need?
Dr. Liland Estacion: We are working closely with local officials to ensure that supplies reach affected communities promptly.Logistics are being managed efficiently,and we are confident that we have the resources to meet the immediate needs.
NewsDirect3.com: What message do you have for the residents of Canlaon City during this time?
Dr. Liland Estacion: Please follow the guidance of local authorities and prioritize your safety. The PHO is committed to supporting you through this challenging time. We are continuously working to ensure your well-being and provide the necessary healthcare services.