BACOLOD CITY — Internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano in the cities of Bago and La Carlota in Negros Occidental are receiving recovery and rehabilitation support from national government agencies and local government units (LGUs).
The Regional Incident Management Team (RIMT) continues to collaborate with LGUs and partner agencies to ensure safe, informed, and dignified returns for all affected residents.
A team from partner agencies, including the Office of Civil Defense and the Department of Health, conducted site visits in the affected communities.
After coordinating response efforts and gathering updates with the Bago City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, they visited Barangay Ilijan to assess the condition of 22 damaged houses belonging to 81 residents still staying at the city’s evacuation center.
The volcanic eruption damaged roofs and downed power lines.
The city government has scheduled the decampment of Barangay Ilijan residents on Aug. 16.
The RIMT personnel then proceeded to adjacent La Carlota City, where they joined the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council meeting.
They discussed preparations for the decampment of 61 families (225 individuals) from Barangay Ara-al.
In La Castellana town, the worst-hit area, evacuation centers still house 61 families (213 individuals) whose homes are located within the four-kilometer permanent danger zone.
Around 1,300 displaced families (4,000 persons) residing outside the permanent danger zone returned home last week after the volcanic alert level was lowered from Level 3 (high unrest) to Level 2 (moderate unrest).
Authorities recommend that communities within the four-kilometer permanent danger zone remain evacuated due to the ongoing risk of sudden explosive eruptions or steam-driven explosions.
Kanlaon Volcano
Kanlaon Volcano, located on Negros Island in the Philippines, is the highest peak in the Visayas region and an active stratovolcano. Known for its scenic beauty and lush forests, it has a history of eruptions dating back to the 19th century, with the most recent activity recorded in 2023. The volcano is part of the Mount Kanlaon Natural Park, a protected area that supports diverse wildlife and attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Barangay Ilijan
Barangay Ilijan is a coastal village located in the municipality of San Juan, Batangas, Philippines. It is known for its scenic beaches, fishing industry, and proximity to the Ilijan Natural Gas Power Plant, one of the largest power facilities in the country. Historically, the area has been a quiet fishing community, but it has seen gradual development due to industrialization and tourism in recent decades.
Bago City
Bago City, located in the Negros Occidental province of the Philippines, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and agricultural significance, particularly in sugarcane production. Established in 1575, it was once a thriving settlement before Spanish colonization and played a role in the country’s struggle for independence. Key attractions include the centuries-old San Sebastian Cathedral and the annual Babaylan Festival, which celebrates indigenous traditions and the city’s vibrant history.
Negros Occidental
Negros Occidental, located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, is a province known for its rich sugarcane plantations, earning it the nickname “Sugar Bowl of the Philippines.” Its history is deeply tied to Spanish colonial rule and the sugar industry, which flourished in the 19th century, shaping its economy and culture. The province is also home to vibrant festivals like the MassKara Festival, showcasing its lively arts, heritage, and resilient spirit.
La Carlota
La Carlota is a city in the province of Córdoba, Argentina, founded in 1730 as part of Spain’s efforts to establish settlements in the region. It played a strategic role in colonial times as a stop along the Camino Real (Royal Road) connecting Buenos Aires to Upper Peru. Today, it preserves historical landmarks like the Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen, reflecting its colonial heritage.
Barangay Ara-al
Barangay Ara-al is a rural village located in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. Historically, it has been an agricultural community, primarily known for sugarcane farming, which reflects the region’s strong ties to the sugar industry. The barangay also features local traditions and festivals that celebrate its cultural heritage and community spirit.
La Castellana
“La Castellana” is a prominent avenue in Buenos Aires, Argentina, known for its upscale neighborhoods, luxury boutiques, and vibrant cultural scene. Historically, it developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of the city’s expansion, becoming a symbol of elegance and modernity. Today, it is a hub for business, entertainment, and high-end living, reflecting Buenos Aires’ cosmopolitan identity.
(Note: If you meant *La Castellana* in another location, such as Spain or the Philippines, please clarify, as the name can refer to different places.)
Office of Civil Defense
The **Office of Civil Defense (OCD)** is a government agency responsible for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, often established during times of conflict or heightened emergency risks. Historically, such offices were created in various countries during World War II to coordinate civilian protection, including air raid precautions and civil defense measures. Today, many nations maintain similar agencies to manage natural disasters, public safety, and national emergencies.
