Mt. Kanlaon eruption causes PHP104.8M in agri damage

The eruption of Mt. Kanlaon on June 3 has caused PHP104.8 million in agricultural damage, affecting 8,580 households and 29,739 individuals across Regions 6 and 7.

High-value crops such as carrots, onions, garlic, squash, and bitter melon have suffered significant losses of 3,890.5 metric tons, along with rice, corn, livestock, and poultry.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has distributed PHP11.346 million in aid to affected families and continues to monitor the situation while maintaining a 'blue alert' status.

Evacuation centers are open for 1,309 families or 4,705 individuals in Region 6, with additional relocation spots identified for animals in Barangays Panubingan and Linothangan in Negros Oriental.

Kanlaon Volcano remains at Alert Level 2, indicating a moderate level of volcanic unrest and potential intrusion of magma at depth.