The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered local governments in Negros Island to heighten readiness and strictly enforce safety measures following a moderately explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Thursday afternoon.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the eruption occurred at around 4:38 p.m. on February 19 and lasted approximately two minutes. A dark gray plume rose about 2,000 meters above the summit and drifted southwest, while pyroclastic density currents were observed descending the southern and southwestern slopes within one kilometer of the crater. Alert Level 2 remains in effect, and entry into the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone is strictly prohibited.

In response, the DILG directed all concerned local chief executives to ensure that communities within the Permanent Danger Zone remain fully evacuated, and that residents within the six-kilometer radius are on heightened alert and prepared for possible escalation of volcanic activity.

Local governments were also instructed to intensify monitoring for potential lahar flows and sediment-laden stream surges, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall, and to sustain risk communication efforts reaching even the most remote sitios near the danger zone.

The Department ordered the immediate convening of local disaster risk reduction and management councils, the activation of emergency operations centers and response clusters, and the strict implementation of Operation L!STO protocols specific to Kanlaon Volcano. LGUs were likewise directed to validate evacuation centers, preposition relief supplies and equipment, and ensure the safety and welfare of responders and internally displaced persons.

In coordination with the Department of Health, the DILG reminded affected communities to observe health precautions in the event of ashfall, including wearing face masks, limiting outdoor exposure, avoiding eye and respiratory irritation, and seeking medical attention for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

The DILG further directed its Negros Island Region office to closely coordinate with the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to ensure the rapid dissemination of advisories, continuous monitoring of PHIVOLCS bulletins, and timely submission of situation reports.

The Department stressed that public safety remains the priority and warned against complacency, noting that volcanic activity can escalate without warning.