THE Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has issued a strong warning against returning to the 6-kilometer extended permanent danger zone (PDZ) around Mt. Kanlaon, emphasizing the continued risks in the area.
The warning came as the Albay Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office roll out measures to protect lives and ensure public safety.
Face-to-face classes have been suspended to ensure the safety of students and staff. Government offices have also reduced working hours, with exemptions for agencies critical to public safety, disaster management and health services. Employees unable to report for work are excused, while private offices are urged to consider early dismissal based on their management's discretion.
Local government units have been given authority to conduct evacuations in areas vulnerable to flooding, landslides and lahar flows. At the same time, restrictions are in place for activities such as the sailing of small seacrafts and crossing swollen rivers to prevent potential accidents.
All City and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices remain on high alert, closely monitoring weather updates from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration to ensure timely response and coordination.
Raul Fernandez, chairman of Task Force Kanlaon and OCD Western Visayas director, stressed the gravity of the situation and the importance of adhering to safety protocols.
He pointed out the unpredictable nature of volcanic eruptions, drawing lessons from the devastating 1991 eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.
"People said, 'Pinatubo hasn't erupted.' It did, and it caused massive devastation. We don't want to repeat history with Kanlaon," Fernandez warned.
To address concerns about livelihoods, evacuees are allowed limited access to their lands to harvest produce between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. Permission is required to ensure authorities can track the number of individuals entering the danger zone.
"Tracking ensures we know who might need evacuation if Kanlaon erupts," said Fernandez as he reiterated that these measures are for everyone's safety.
He reassured residents that the government is ready to provide assistance.
"We will help each other. That's why we are here — to show that the President and the government are with you," Fernandez said.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and strictly comply with safety protocols to minimize risks during this critical period.