By Alyanna Gabas and Yra Suarin
Mount Kanlaon is currently under Alert Level 3, signifying high unrest and potential for hazardous eruptions that could rise to Alert Level 4.
The situation escalated following an eruption last Dec. 4, with the volcano continuing to display seismic activity.
Located in Negros Island, Mount Kanlaon is one of the most active stratovolcanoes in the Philippines, known for its history of destructive eruptions that severely affect nearby communities.
If volcanic unrest intensifies, its status may be raised to Alert Level 4, signaling an imminent explosive eruption and necessitating immediate evacuations and emergency measures to protect lives and property.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has recorded over 100 minor eruptions or ash emissions since October 2024.
Experts’ inputs
In an advisory issued last Jan. 11, PHIVOLCS warned the public of a heightened likelihood of eruption based on Kanlaon’s recent seismic activities.
“There is presently an increased chance for sudden explosive eruptions to occur and endanger communities at risk with life-threatening volcanic hazards,” PHIVOLCS stated.
Silliman University (SU) Instructor and Geologist Jirah Quinamot justified the behavior of Kanlaon Volcano to its geographical location and geological features.
He explained that the Philippines, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent volcanic activity due to its position near the tectonic boundary between the Philippine Plate and the Eurasian Plate.
Quinamot noted that Kanlaon’s eruptions result from natural geological processes, such as the subduction of heavy crust beneath lighter crust, which causes magma to rise and form volcanoes. Its activity is directly linked to the region’s seismic and trench dynamics.
Moreover, Quinamot emphasized the possibility of an escalation in alert levels.
“To tell you honestly, from the past readings that I have and, theoretically speaking, there is really a chance that it will go from level three to a higher level,” he explained. “This may happen, but other things may happen, too. So the probability is really fifty-fifty.”
Quinamot assured, however, that the government is taking all necessary measures to ensure public safety and advised people to remain vigilant and informed.
Locals’ perspective
The recent eruption and seismic activity of Kanlaon Volcano have severely affected the lives of residents in Canlaon City.
Evacuations have forced families to leave their homes and daily routines to ensure their safety.
Jesaira Claudian, a resident and evacuee, shared how her family has been deeply affected by the volcanic unrest and tremors.
“We [needed] to leave our homes and abandon our daily lives in the mountains to keep us all safe,” she said.
Apart from the immediate safety concerns, Claudian expressed her worry about the impact on her education.
“We are having a hard time keeping up with our studies which for me is really challenging since I am a graduating student,” she added.
Another resident, Zian Delubio, voiced his concerns about the uncertainty of the situation, asking: “Will it ever erupt and when?”
Furthermore, Delubio highlighted the struggles of those in evacuation zones.
“Some financial help would be amazing to those still in the evac zones to help for their food and other necessities. They regularly call on [to] helpful hands to donate financially or physically as like [an] item they are willing to be borrowed or donated,” he said.
Government’s response
In a meeting held last Jan. 15, the Office of Civil Defense announced ongoing preparations for the potential eruption.
PHIVOLCS and local government units have coordinated plans for evacuating residents within the 10-kilometer Extended Danger Zone should the alert level be raised.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has heightened public safety measures by frequently sending emergency alert messages to mobile phone users in the vicinity of Kanlaon.
These alerts provide real-time updates, evacuation instructions, and safety reminders.
To enhance public awareness, PHIVOLCS has been releasing daily time-lapse videos of Kanlaon’s activity. These videos aim to keep the public informed and emphasize the importance of preparedness.
Government agencies are also working closely with humanitarian organizations to deliver relief supplies to evacuation centers.
Moreover, medical teams have been deployed to assist evacuees, with priority given to vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Local governments have set up designated evacuation sites equipped with clean water, sanitation facilities, and psychosocial support services to address the physical and emotional needs of displaced residents.
