NEGROS Occidental — A moderately explosive eruption occurred at the summit crater of Mount Kanlaon at about 4:38 p.m. yesterday, prompting authorities to reiterate safety warnings and maintain Alert Level 2.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the eruption lasted about two minutes and generated a dark gray plume that rose approximately 2,000 meters above the crater before drifting southwest.
PHIVOLCS monitoring cameras also recorded pyroclastic density currents descending the southern and southwestern upper slopes within one kilometer of the summit crater.
Entry into the four-kilometer-radius Permanent Danger Zone remains strictly prohibited, PHIVOLCS added.
Science Research Specialist Pearly Sianson of the PHIVOLCS Kanlaon Volcano Observatory in La Carlota Citys, Negros Occidental confirmed the explosive event, which occurred at around 4:38 p.m.
The Negros Occidental Operations Center issued a Kanlaon Volcano Advisory urging the public to be cautious of possible pyroclastic flows and ashfall, particularly in areas southwest of the volcano.
Meanwhile, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) also called on residents to remain alert and follow official advisories as ashfall and related hazards may affect nearby communities.
“Manatili pong naka-alerto, laging mag-ingat, at sumunod sa paalala at babala ng mga awtoridad,” the OCD said.
In a Facebook post at 5:25 p.m., Bacolod City’s Mayor Greg Gasataya said the city government is closely monitoring the situation, noting that ashfall and other indirect effects could still reach Bacolod depending on wind conditions.
Gasataya advised Bacolodnons — especially those with respiratory conditions, senior citizens, pregnant women, and children — to take precautions, including wearing masks and limiting outdoor exposure if ashfall occurs. Authorities said they will continue to issue updates as the situation develops./PN