BACOLOD City — The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has activated its contingency and emergency response measures following an advisory from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology after the moderately explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.
The Negros Occidental Operations Center reported that Kanlaon Volcano erupted at 4:39 p.m. on February 19, causing ashfall and a strong sulfuric odor in several areas across the province.
Under the directive of Regional Director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, all chiefs of police and force commanders—particularly those in identified danger zones and nearby municipalities—were ordered to implement proactive measures to ensure public safety and maintain peace and order.
Police units have intensified coordination with local government units (LGUs), Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs), the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and other partner agencies to support evacuation efforts and assist affected communities.
Personnel were deployed to monitor high-risk areas, manage traffic, secure evacuation centers, and ensure the readiness of mobility and communication assets.
All units were likewise directed to submit real-time situational reports to guarantee a timely and coordinated response.
Based on reports from the Negros Occidental Operations Center, seven LGUs in Negros Occidental experienced ashfall and sulfuric odor.
These included Bago City, particularly Barangays Ilijan, Mailum, and Binubuhan; Pontevedra, covering Barangays Zamora, Gomez, Mabini, Burgos, Buenavista, Rizal, Antipolo, Canroma, Cambarus, MH Del Pilar, and Pandan; La Castellana, specifically Barangays Sag-ang and Cabagnaan; La Carlota City, including Barangays San Miguel, Ara-al, Cubay, Nagasi, and La Granja; Moises Padilla, particularly Barangay Odiong; Hinigaran, covering Barangays Miranda, Gargato 1, 2, 3, and 4, Anahaw, Cambaog, Narawis, Tuguis, Baga-as, Bato, Nanunga, Calapi, Quiwi, Himaya, and Pilar; and Valladolid, particularly Barangays Guintorilan and Batuan.
Authorities advised residents experiencing ashfall or other eruption-related hazards to immediately report to their respective Barangay DRRMCs, Local DRRMOs, or local authorities.
PRO-NIR assured the public that the police force remains fully prepared and committed to safeguarding lives and properties during the volcanic unrest. Residents were urged to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and prioritize safety at all times.
The regional police office said it will continue to work closely with concerned agencies to ensure a unified and effective disaster response for communities affected by Kanlaon’s eruption./PN
