The foremost humanitarian organization in the country, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), continues to shed light and aid for thousands of vulnerable individuals affected by the Mt. Kanlaon eruption for more than 170 days or six months. 

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Mount Kanlaon is still in Alert Level 3 with intensified magmatic unrest, which means it is currently in a relatively high level of unrest and hazardous eruption within days or weeks. It is therefore recommended that the 6-km radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) remain evacuated due to the danger of PDCs, lava flows, rock falls, and other volcanic hazards. Citizens are advised not to return to the danger zone area due to the threat of the impact of volcanic eruption. 

Responding effectively and efficiently to the needs of affected Filipinos, the PRC deployed a pool of humanitarian assets within Negros Oriental and Occidental, including areas within the Visayas Region. PRC mobilized four food trucks, four ambulances, and a payloader. 

“Tuloy-tuloy ang ating operasyon sa Kanlaon. Sa loob ng anim na buwan, walang patid ang pagbibigay natin ng tulong at pag-asa sa ating mga kababayang apektado ng pagsabog ng bulkan. Makakaasa po kayo na palaging nariyan ang Philippine Red Cross upang kayo ay saklolohan at tulungang makabangon,” PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon stated. 

As of June 16, the organization distributed hot meals to 29,195 individuals; 330 food packs; 1,563 pieces of bread, kitchen sets, blankets, and mosquito nets to 296 families; 1,099 pieces of face masks; and 11,200,500 liters of potable water. 

PRC set up four water stations with bladders, 59 first aid stations, and 104 welfare desks. 

Additionally, it conducted hygiene promotions, health consultations, health promotion sessions, psychological first aid, child-friendly activities, and clearing operations. 

“The PRC remains on high alert as we continue to provide necessary support to the affected people in Negros and nearby areas. We will continue to monitor the situation through our Red Cross staff and volunteers on the ground. Sa ating mga kababayan, manatili po tayong alerto at sumunod sa safety protocols para sa inyong kaligtasan,” PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang said. 

For emergency assistance, call the PRC hotline at 143.