Bais City Extends PHP1-M Aid to Kanlaon Evacuees

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The city government of Bais in Negros Oriental has donated PHP1 million to the local government of Canlaon City to support residents displaced by the Dec. 9, 2024, eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.

Bais City Mayor Luigi Marcel Goñi handed over the check to Canlaon City Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas during a visit on Monday. The funds are intended to assist evacuees in need of shelter, food, and other essential support.

In a Facebook post, Goñi called on other local government units (LGUs), private organizations, and individuals to join in providing assistance during this challenging time.

“Canlaon City and its people are in urgent need of help, and together, we can make a significant difference in rebuilding lives and providing relief to those affected,” Goñi said. He emphasized the importance of unity and highlighted the Filipino spirit of bayanihan.

Cardenas expressed gratitude to Bais City and its Incident Management Team for the financial aid and the mats or banig that were also donated for the evacuees.

Meanwhile, Canlaon City addressed concerns regarding the ongoing evacuation measures implemented due to Kanlaon Volcano’s Alert Level 3 status.

The city government clarified that speculations of “arbitrary detention” have no basis and assured the public that the measures are entirely humanitarian and aimed at ensuring the welfare of the affected communities.

Residents within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) have been evacuated following the mandate of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and based on recommendations from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

“The evacuation orders are temporary and are issued solely to prevent harm,” the city government said in a statement posted on Facebook.

The LGU emphasized that protecting the lives of its citizens during times of heightened risk is its responsibility and priority. It noted that the precautionary measures are not arbitrary but are in accordance with national disaster management protocols to safeguard residents from potential volcanic hazards.

The city urged the public, including legal professionals, to verify information and avoid spreading misleading statements that could cause unnecessary confusion.

“We call on everyone to unite in prioritizing the safety and well-being of all as we continue to work closely with OCD, PHIVOLCS, and other agencies to address this situation effectively,” the city said.

Caption: Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas (center) of Canlaon City, Negros Oriental receives a check amounting to PHP1 million from Bais City Mayor Luigi Marcel Goñi (left) on Monday to aid evacuees displaced by the Dec. 9, 2024, eruption of Kanlaon Volcano. (Photo via Salta Canlaon Official)