In a recent meeting at Canlaon City Hall, Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas received assurances from the Department of Agriculture (DA) regarding support for the city’s recovery efforts following the Mt. Kanlaon eruption. The meeting, held on January 3, 2025, included DA Assistant Secretary Daniel Atayde and other city officials, focusing on the rehabilitation of the agricultural sector.
Albert Barogo, Executive Director of DA-Negros Island Region, confirmed that Atayde promised funding for recovery once Canlaon City finalizes its rehabilitation plan. The mayor specifically requested aid in the form of seeds, fertilizers, and silage for livestock, rather than cash, to directly support the affected farmers.
Since the eruption on December 9, farmers from villages within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone of Mt. Kanlaon have been residing in evacuation centers. They are permitted to work on their farms during the day but must return to the evacuation sites at night. Some livestock have been moved to a holding area at the city agriculture office, while others have been temporarily adopted by relatives until it is safe for farmers to return home.
Canlaon City, a significant producer of rice and vegetables in Negros Oriental, is preparing to submit its final rehabilitation plan next week. This plan will outline the extent of damage to farmers, agricultural lands, livestock, and high-value crops, paving the way for targeted recovery efforts.