PDRRMC recommends state of calamity for Negros Occidental amid Kanlaon Volcano unrest

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of Negros Occidental has recommended the declaration of a state of calamity, following the effects of the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.

PDRRMC's Resolution No. 11 will be for endorsed to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental.

It urged the provincial council to allot a portion of its calamity fund for immediate assistance to the affected residents.

The body also prompted the provincial council to impose price freeze on basic commodities and fund the repair and upgrading of public infrastructure and facilities.

The resolution further asked the provincial council to utilize the quick response fund and to use alternative modes of procurement.

Kanlaon Volcano erupted on Monday afternoon, prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to raise its status to Alert Level 3.

PDRRMO said affected areas include La Castella, La Carlota, Pontevedra, the southeastern portion of Bago, Valladolid, San Enrique, Hinigaran, and Binalbagan.

According to the Office of Civil Defense, 39,258 individuals or 9,942 families have been evacuated so far amid Kanlaon’s activity. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News