In response to the recent explosive eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, the Department of Health (DOH) has escalated its emergency measures to a ‘blue alert’ status across Negros Island. This decision comes in the wake of Negros Occidental being declared under a state of calamity, necessitating enhanced support for those impacted by the volcanic activity.
Director Razel Nikka Hao of the DOH-Negros Island Region (NIR) explained that the ‘code blue’ alert signifies the immediate mobilization of health teams, experts, and additional resources to manage the crisis. This alert level aims to bolster coordination with teams already on the ground and other agencies, facilitating long-term planning and support for the affected municipalities.
Following the eruption on December 9, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) upgraded the alert level of Mt. Kanlaon to Alert 3, indicating the onset of a magmatic eruption that could lead to further explosive activity.
Under the blue alert, the DOH-NIR’s primary focus is the swift deployment of health emergency response teams to the most affected areas, with priority given to high-burden evacuation centers. The department is also tasked with managing the inventory and augmentation of essential supplies to ensure they are adequately stocked and replenished in a timely manner. Continuous monitoring and reporting of health events, particularly in evacuation centers, are also critical components of the response strategy.
Director Hao emphasized the importance of adhering to evacuation orders and safety guidelines issued by local government units. According to the regional social welfare office, the eruption has affected 5,082 families, totaling 17,216 individuals, in the cities of Bago and La Carlota, and the municipalities of La Castellana, Moises Padilla, Murcia, and Pontevedra in Negros Occidental. Currently, 3,611 families, comprising 12,101 people, remain sheltered in 22 evacuation centers, predominantly in La Castellana, the area hardest hit by the eruption.