Inspection of Proposed Resettlement Sites for Kanlaon Volcano Displaced Residents
BACOLOD CITY – The Office of Civil Defense-Negros Island Region (OCD-NIR) is currently inspecting proposed resettlement and permanent evacuation sites for residents displaced by Kanlaon Volcano in four local government units across Negros Occidental. The agency is finalizing the selection of suitable locations to provide long-term safety for affected families.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the areas under review include La Castellana, La Carlota City, Bago City, and San Carlos City. The four LGUs are coordinating closely to identify sites that meet safety and accessibility standards while addressing the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Site Evaluations in San Carlos and La Carlota City
Initially, San Carlos City did not express a relocation need. However, after consultations with technical working groups and LGU representatives, the city recognized the importance of permanent resettlement. They proposed a 300-hectare site in Barangay Prosperidad for this purpose, alongside plans for a permanent evacuation center in Barangay Codcod.
Though residents are located beyond the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone, officials prefer a permanent solution over temporary relocation. Yet, questions remain regarding funding and construction responsibilities. These issues will be referred to the National Task Force Kanlaon for further assistance.
In La Carlota City, three barangays—Haguimit, San Miguel, and La Granja—were initially considered for resettlement. Yet hazard assessments revealed these areas could be vulnerable to pyroclastic density currents in case of an explosive eruption. Consequently, the search for safer sites continues.
Challenges in La Castellana and Bago City Site Selection
La Castellana proposed two locations, Barangays Talaptap and Lalagsan, which initially passed safety assessments. However, the landowner of Barangay Lalagsan has withdrawn willingness to sell, leaving the LGU to seek negotiations or alternative solutions. Meanwhile, Barangay Talaptap is accessible only through a hacienda, suggesting future road improvements will be necessary.
In Bago City, the identified site underwent hazard mapping that uncovered potential tsunami risks despite its distance from the coast. Mitigation measures are underway, but if the site fails to meet safety standards, authorities will assess other options.
Ongoing Efforts for Kanlaon Volcano Displaced Residents
The OCD-NIR has pledged to provide monthly updates on Kanlaon Volcano displaced residents and the progress of relocation site development. Notably, funding proposals from affected LGUs will now be submitted directly to the Department of Budget and Management, bypassing prior procedures involving the OCD.
Additionally, the OCD is assisting LGUs in crafting evacuation plans tailored specifically to the needs of internally displaced persons. These plans will cover logistics such as transportation and routes to evacuation centers, distinct from general contingency plans.
Data collection efforts are ongoing and progressing steadily despite requiring time. As one official noted, “It’s taking time, but at least we’re moving forward.”
For more news and updates on Kanlaon Volcano displaced residents, visit Filipinokami.com.