State of Calamity Declared in Negros Oriental Due to Mt. Kanlaon Eruption
- DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines - Mount Kanlaon’s recent eruptions, culminating in a major event on December 9th, have sent shockwaves through Negros oriental province.While no casualties have been reported,...
- In an exclusive interview with NewDirectory3.com, locals spoke of their harrowing experiences and anxieties.
- Reyes, along with her family and neighbors, huddled together as the ground shook, fearing for their lives.
Philippine Volcano Eruption Prompts State of Calamity
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DUMAGUETE CITY,Philippines – The threat of further eruptions from Mount Kanlaon has prompted officials in the Philippines to recommend a state of calamity for Negros Oriental province. The recommendation comes after weeks of unrest from the volcano, which erupted on December 9th, forcing thousands to flee their homes.
FINANCIAL AID.Canlaon City Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas (with megaphone) addresses evacuees during the distribution of cash assistance on Thursday (Dec. 26, 2024). As the Dec. 9 eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, 2,421 families or 7,816 individuals have sought shelter in evacuation centers and other temporary accommodations. (Photo courtesy of SALTA Canlaon official Facebook)
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) voted on Thursday to recommend the declaration after the local goverment unit of Vallehermoso declared a state of calamity.This follows a similar declaration by Canlaon City, which has been in a state of calamity since a June 3rd eruption.
“Once declared,the provincial government can access its swift response fund (QRF) for disaster response and relief,” said Adrian Sedillo,PDRRMC chief.
The declaration is crucial as local resources are dwindling. Canlaon City’s speedy response fund has been depleted, and the PHP30 million (approximately $540,000 USD) in aid from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is also being rapidly used.
Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Central Visayas has been providing food packs and PHP3,000 (approximately $54 USD) cash assistance to families displaced within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone. Canlaon City Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas has urged the DSWD to expand the aid program to include evacuees staying with relatives.
As of December 26th,over 7,800 individuals remain displaced,with many seeking refuge in evacuation centers. While residents outside the danger zone have been advised to return home as fears of a major eruption have subsided, the situation remains precarious. The state of calamity declaration is a necessary step to ensure that the affected communities receive the support they need during this challenging time.
Communities Grapple with Aftermath
the eruption has had a profound impact on the lives of residents in Negros Oriental.
“It’s been a tough few weeks,” said Maria Santos, a resident of Canlaon City. “The volcano first erupted back in june and then again on December 9th. It’s been stressful, not knowing what will happen next.”
Santos explained that the state of calamity declaration is a lifeline for the community.”It basically unlocks emergency funding and resources for the area,” she said. “They need help to keep supporting the thousands of people who had to leave their homes.”
The eruption has displaced thousands, forcing them to seek shelter in evacuation centers or with relatives.
“Some are in official evacuation centers, but a lot of families are staying with relatives or wherever they can find shelter,” Santos said. “There are over 7,800 people still displaced as of yesterday.”
While the DSWD is providing some assistance, Santos believes more needs to be done.”They are receiving some help – food packs and cash assistance,” she said. “But the mayor is calling for even more aid, especially for those who aren’t in the official evacuation centers.”
As the situation unfolds, the people of Negros Oriental are hoping for a swift return to normalcy. The state of calamity declaration is a crucial step in ensuring they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
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“Living in Fear”: Negros Oriental Residents Reflect on Kanlaon Eruption
DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines –
Mount Kanlaon’s recent eruptions, culminating in a major event on December 9th, have sent shockwaves
through Negros oriental province.While no casualties have been reported, thousands have been displaced,
forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods in the shadow of the volatile volcano.
In an exclusive interview with NewDirectory3.com, locals spoke of their harrowing experiences and anxieties.
Maria Reyes, a resident of La Carlota City, located on the slopes of the volcano, described the terrifying moment the
eruption began.
“The ground started to tremble, and a booming sound filled the air. We looked outside, and the sky was filled with
ash and smoke. It was like something out of a nightmare.” – Maria Reyes
Reyes, along with her family and neighbors, huddled together as the ground shook, fearing for their lives. They eventually joined the exodus of thousands fleeing to evacuation centers.
The provincial government has recommended a state of calamity for negros Oriental, a move aimed at
unlocking emergency funds and resources to support displaced residents. Official Jorge Rodriguez emphasized the
urgent need for aid.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens. The state of calamity
declaration will enable us to provide them with the necessary assistance, including food, shelter, and medical care.”
– Jorge Rodriguez
But for many residents like Reyes, the future remains uncertain. Returning home seems like a distant dream, as the threat of further eruptions looms large. The psychological toll of the experience is also profound, with many struggling to cope
with fear and anxiety.