Govt readies relocation for Taal evacuees

The Philippine government is prepared to relocate residents living within the seven-kilometer danger zone of Taal Volcano and provide them with livelihood programs should a permanent lockdown be imposed.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles stated that the government is anticipating all contingencies and is ready to implement relocation plans if President Duterte decides residents cannot return to their homes.

Housing projects in nearby provinces such as Laguna, Cavite, and Bulacan have been identified to accommodate approximately 5,000 displaced families.

Over 300,000 individuals were affected by the Taal Volcano's eruption on January 12, forcing them to evacuate their homes.

While some evacuees were allowed to return home after the danger level was lowered to Alert Level 3, the towns of Agoncillo and Laurel in Batangas remain under lockdown.

Taal Volcano itself is under a permanent lockdown, prohibiting entry due to the potential for ongoing volcanic hazards.

Nograles assured that relocation packages will include livelihood programs to support the displaced families as they resettle in new areas.