Kanlaon Volcano eruption triggers lahar flow

The town of La Castellana in Negros Occidental has been placed under state of calamity following the eruption of Mount Kanlaon. 

According to a report by GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas' Aileen Pedroso on "24 Oras"  Wednesday, the rains have caused the lahar to flow from the volcano which resulted in a cement-like flood along the streets. 

The lahar flow also caused the water from Baji-Baji falls to appear grayish. 

“Ang mga na-deposit kumbaga na ash fragments during the eruption noong June 3, syempre nag-settle na siya sa flank ng ating volcano. Then, malakas ang ulan lalo na sa southern part ng ating volcano, so na-wash out ang mga deposit," Mari Andylene Quintia, resident volcanologist from Kanlaon Volcano Observatory, explained. 

(The ash fragments that were deposited during the eruption last June 3 have already settled at the volcano’s flank. Then the strong rainfall, especially at the southern part of the volcano, washed out those deposits.) 

Eight barangays in La Castellana have been affected by the volcano's unrest. 

Meanwhile, at least 200 residents from the town are currently staying at the evacuation center. 

“As of now kailangan nila ng tubig. Yun ang urgent natin. And we have already requested for that and even for possible deployment of mobile water filtration,” said Office of Civil Defense VI Regional Director Raul Fernandez. 

(As of now, they need water. That’s very urgent. And we have already requested for that and even for possible deployment of mobile water filtration.) 

The local government unit of La Castellana advised its affected residents not to return yet to their houses while authorities are still waiting for an update on Kanlaon’s activity. 

Government work in La Castellana remains suspended. —Vince Ferreras/LDF, GMA Integrated News