The eruption of Mt. Kanlaon on Monday afternoon has led to widespread ashfall, prompting the Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Negros Occidental to issue a health advisory. The eruption, captured from Barangay Mansalanao in La Castellana, has affected at least 10 local government units in Negros Occidental, as well as parts of Iloilo, Guimaras, and Antique. Ma. Girlie Pinongan, the provincial health officer, emphasized the importance of taking health precautions due to the risks posed by ashfall, which can harm unprotected eyes and lungs and contaminate water and food supplies. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) confirmed the ashfall’s impact on Tuesday. In response, 12 local government units in Negros Occidental, including cities like Bago, La Carlota, and Himamaylan, and municipalities such as La Castellana and Moises Padilla, suspended classes. Ashfall was also reported in Iloilo City and several towns in Iloilo province, as well as in various areas of Antique and Guimaras. Additionally, the smell of sulfur was noted in several barangays and in Bago city proper. Phivolcs also observed dangerous pyroclastic density currents in several villages in La Castellana. The PHO advisory recommended minimizing ash exposure by wearing safety goggles, avoiding contact lenses, and using masks or wet handkerchiefs to cover the nose and mouth. Residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed, monitor news updates, prepare medications, and pack emergency bags in case of evacuation. Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and report any health concerns or emergencies to local officials.
