Canlaon City preps for potential evacuation if Mt. Kanlaon alert level rises

Canlaon City's local government is preparing for potential evacuation if Mount Kanlaon's alert level is raised from 3 to 4.

Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas announced an orientation on 'Plan Exodus,' which outlines the systematic transportation of residents to designated centers in Vallehermoso town and Ayungon, should the volcano reach Alert Level 4.

The province has declared a state of calamity due to the volcanic threat, allowing for the use of the Quick Response Fund to provide more disaster response funds and assistance.

A simulation exercise was conducted on Tuesday involving representatives from each of the city's 10 evacuation camps and other designated pick-up points for those not in camps.

Currently, 2,381 families or 7,638 individuals have been displaced with 1,735 families staying in 10 evacuation centers and the rest housed with relatives.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported nine ash emissions, 26 volcanic earthquakes, and sulfur dioxide emission totaling 7,079 tons between December 30 and December 31.