Ashfall from Kanlaon Volcano Impacts 12 Villages in Negros

The eruption of Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Oriental continues to pose a significant threat to surrounding communities, with ashfall affecting at least 12 villages in the region. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issued an advisory, warning residents about the ongoing volcanic activity and advising them to take necessary precautions.

As of April 9, 2025, authorities reported widespread ashfall covering several villages in Negros Oriental, including La Castellana, Isabela, and other nearby areas. The ashfall, caused by an explosive eruption, has disrupted daily life, as the heavy ash has blanketed homes, roads, and fields, forcing residents to evacuate. While no casualties have been reported so far, the volcanic eruption has raised concerns among local officials, especially regarding the safety and well-being of affected communities.

Local authorities, including the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), are on high alert and are closely monitoring the situation. Emergency response teams have been deployed to assist residents with evacuations and provide aid. Relief operations are also underway to supply affected communities with essential resources such as food, water, and face masks to protect against inhaling ash particles.

The ashfall has created hazardous conditions for residents, particularly those living in the immediate vicinity of the volcano. PHIVOLCS has warned that further eruptions are possible, as seismic activity continues to be recorded beneath Kanlaon Volcano. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel due to the poor visibility and the potential danger posed by falling ash.

The ashfall has also disrupted agricultural activities in the affected areas, as fields and crops have been covered in volcanic ash. Farmers in La Castellana and Isabela, known for their rice and sugarcane production, are facing the destruction of their crops, which may lead to significant economic losses.

In response to the ongoing situation, the local government has placed the affected areas under a state of calamity. This declaration allows the government to release funds for relief and rehabilitation efforts. Additionally, evacuation centers have been set up to shelter displaced residents, particularly those in danger zones within the 6-kilometer radius of the volcano’s summit.

The possibility of a more destructive eruption remains a serious concern. While PHIVOLCS has raised Kanlaon Volcano’s alert level to Level 3, indicating moderate to intense activity, officials are urging the public to remain vigilant. The OCD and NDRRMC are preparing for the potential escalation of the eruption, including the possibility of pyroclastic flows and lahar, which could cause more significant damage to the affected communities.

Despite the ongoing challenges, the resilience of the residents in the affected areas has been evident. Local officials continue to coordinate with national agencies to ensure the safety of the population and minimize the impact of the eruption. As authorities monitor Kanlaon Volcano’s activity, they remain hopeful that their efforts will mitigate further destruction and ensure the well-being of those affected by the eruption.

Authorities are expected to provide further updates as they continue to assess the situation. The public is urged to follow safety protocols and stay informed about any changes in the alert status of the volcano. ​

Sources:

• https://www.onenews.ph/articles/kanlaon-ashfall-affects-12-villages-in-negros
• https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/04/10/2434826/kanlaon-ashfall-affects-12-villages-negros
• https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/regions/2025/4/9/ocd-preparing-for-possibility-of-more-destructive-kanlaon-eruption-1703 
• https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/other/earthquake-swarm-sparks-fears-massive-volcano-is-about-to-erupt/ar-AA1CC4P1?ocid=weather-verthp-feeds