OCD warns of possible Mount Kanlaon eruption

Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Spokesperson Atty. Chris Bendijo advises the public to watch out for sulfur dioxide emissions from Mount Kanlaon on Sunday.

In a radio interview, Bendijo explains that the sulfur dioxide emissions indicate a possible eruption of Mount Kanlaon.

"Kung mas maraming nabubugang sulfur dioxide, mas malayang nakakalabas ang pressure. Kapag ganitong mababa, ang pangamba natin, baka may build-up ulit ng pressure," he explained.

If the volcano releases a low amount of sulfur dioxide, either a phreatic or a major or minor eruption may follow, as pressure is not being released from the volcano.

He added that more than 1,000 tons of sulfur dioxide emissions of Mount Kanlaon were recorded in the past hours.

"Mula kagabi, may naitalang 16 volcanic earthquakes. 300 tons per day ang sulfur dioxide emission. Medyo alarming ito," he said.

The volcano is edifice and still inflated. An inflated volcano signifies that it may still release magma anytime.

In terms of affected population, more than 23,500 families, or over 92,000 individuals, are currently affected. Rescue and assistance are being provided to families and individuals brought to evacuation centers.

"Naipasa na natin ang Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act last December 2024. Nabalangkas at naipasa na rin ang IRR nito. Ang sadya ng batas na ito, lahat ng munisipalidad sa bansa ay mayroong Ligtas Pinoy Center," he said.

The sole purpose of implementing this is to avoid using schools as evacuation centers. "Malinaw ang instruction ng Pangulo, na dapat hindi maapektuhan ang pag-aaral ng mga estudyante," he added.