Gov’t Work Resumes, Curfew Set in Negros Town Hit by Kanlaon Eruption
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Gov’t Work Resumes, Curfew Set in Negros Town Hit by Kanlaon Eruption. The local government of La Castellana in Negros Occidental has resumed operations following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon. This town was severely affected by the eruption, and the municipal government is closely monitoring lahar or mudflow that has impacted several villages.
Resumption of Government Work
Mayor Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan had previously suspended the operations of local government offices on Wednesday, except for those providing essential services such as disaster preparedness and response.
On Thursday night, she issued an executive order announcing the resumption of work in all government offices starting Friday. This decision underscores the need for personnel to distribute relief goods, offer medical care, and address humanitarian concerns.
Nicor-Mangilimutan emphasized the importance of public service during this critical time, urging municipal employees to perform their duties with dedication and to avoid giving media interviews or spreading unverified information about the eruption.
Curfew Implementation
To ensure public safety and support anti-criminality efforts, a curfew has been imposed from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. starting Friday. The curfew applies to individuals in public places, with exceptions for government workers, private sector employees on duty, medical professionals, and utility workers engaged in essential activities.
Impact on Residents
As of June 6, approximately 330 families (1,285 individuals) were housed in evacuation centers, while 69 families (384 individuals) sought refuge with relatives. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Western Visayas provided these figures. The eruption, which occurred on June 6, has led to the town being placed under Alert Level 2, indicating ongoing volcanic unrest that could result in further explosive activity.
Evacuation and Safety Measures
In response to lahar or mudflow in Barangay Biak na Bato, the municipal government, in coordination with the DSWD-6 and the Provincial Social Welfare office, initiated preemptive evacuations for residents within the 4 to 6-kilometer radius danger zone. This measure aims to ensure the safety of the population in the affected areas.
Call for Prayer
The Diocese of Bacolod has urged the faithful to recite the Oratio Imperata, a prayer for deliverance from natural calamities. Bishop Patricio Buzon has instructed that this prayer be said after the Prayer of Benefit at every Mass in parishes and communities. The diocese continues to offer prayers for those affected by the volcanic activity, particularly those in evacuation centers.
Volcanic Activity Warning
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has cautioned that Mt. Kanlaon, despite a brief period of calm following Monday night’s eruption, may erupt again. This warning highlights the ongoing risk and the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.
Conclusion
The local government of La Castellana is taking significant steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents in the wake of Mt. Kanlaon’s eruption. The resumption of government work, implementation of a curfew, and preemptive evacuations are part of a comprehensive response to this natural disaster.
Additionally, the call for collective prayer underscores the community’s reliance on faith during these challenging times.
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