Kanlaon Volcano Evacuees Relocate to Safe Sites Amid Danger
BACOLod CITY – Over 2,000 evacuees from five barangays in La Castellana, Negros Occidental are moving from school evacuation centers to safer locations. This relocation aims to provide continuous shelter as the threat from Kanlaon Volcano remains.
The municipal government began relocating some Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) on June 12, according to local reports. The evacuees come from Barangays Sag-ang, Mansalanao, Masulog, Biak na Bato, and Cabagna-an.
Ensuring Education and Welfare During Relocation
Mayor Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan met with Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II and representatives of government agencies on June 11. They discussed moving evacuees from school-based shelters to barangay covered courts and other designated safe sites.
This effort supports uninterrupted education and safeguards the dignity and welfare of displaced families, local leaders noted. It also complies with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Memorandum No. 135, Series of 2025. This memorandum requires clearing schools used as evacuation centers before the school year begins.
Support and Future Plans for Kanlaon Volcano Evacuees
The provincial government assured evacuees will continue receiving essential services, facilities, and basic needs throughout the move. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson shared in a media interview that funds are set aside for a permanent relocation site. However, the initial land preferred did not pass inspection.
“I think right now, there are two owners, whose properties pass the grid, and we’re negotiating with them,” the governor said.
He added that IDPs who choose to stay with relatives have permission to return home. “We’re also looking at those who lived by the roads, maybe they would be the next group to be allowed to go home,” he explained.
Schools Resume Classes as Evacuees Relocate
La Castellana Elementary School announced on Facebook that full face-to-face classes will resume on June 16. The school had served as an evacuation center since the June 3 eruption.
“We look forward to welcoming all Batang South back on campus for a productive and engaging school year,” the school said.
Similarly, La Carlota City recommended that some IDPs outside the six-kilometer danger zone return home. This move will help schools used as shelters reopen for in-person learning.
For more news and updates on Kanlaon Volcano evacuees, visit Filipinokami.com.