PRESS RELEASE - OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

January 7, 2025

Raul Fernandez, chair of Task Force Kanlaon and Director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Western Visayas, today cautioned evacuees that it is still unsafe to return to their homes within the six-kilometer extended danger zone of the volcano.

“As much as possible, we at the Office of Civil Defense, along with other government agencies like Phivolcs, don’t want you to be in trouble,” Fernandez stated.

He emphasized the unpredictability of volcanic activity, noting that some individuals believe they understand Kanlaon's behavior.

“But then there’s always a first time,” he warned.

Fernandez referenced the 1991 eruption of Mt Pinatubo, which had been dormant for 600 years before erupting and causing widespread devastation.

“People were saying: ‘Pinatubo hasn’t erupted.’ It did, so there’s always a first time. And if that happens with Kanlaon, we might become victims,” he cautioned.

He reassured evacuees not to overly worry about their livelihoods at this time, as government assistance is available.

“We will help each other. That’s precisely the reason why we’re here in your municipalities and cities—to show you that we have the support of the President,” he added.

Fernandez explained that evacuees have been authorized to visit their lands and harvest produce from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. However, they must seek permission so authorities can monitor the number of individuals in the danger zone.

“This is for your own safety,” he reiterated, stressing the importance of knowing who might need to be evacuated if Kanlaon erupts.

PRESS RELEASE - OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

January 10, 2025

The Province of Negros Oriental has been declared under a State of Calamity due to the explosive eruption of Mount Kanlaon on December 9, 2024.

This declaration, made during a special session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on December 27, underscores the urgent need for emergency response measures following significant volcanic activity that poses a serious threat to local communities. Presided over by Vice Governor Jaime L. Reyes, the session was attended by various members, including Hon. Julius C. Sabac, Hon. Nyrth Christian R. Degamo, and Hon. Kit Marc B. Adanza.

The eruption produced a substantial magmatic explosion, resulting in a plume that rose approximately 3,000 meters above the vent and drifted west-southward. Widespread ashfall was reported in areas west of the volcano, along with the generation of pyroclastic density currents—hazardous mixtures of hot volcanic gas, ash, and fragmented rock—that descended the southern and southeastern slopes of the volcano. In response to the eruption, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised the alert level for Mount Kanlaon to Alert Level 3.

This action expanded the Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) to a six-kilometer radius, necessitating the mandatory evacuation of residents living within the identified danger zones. The City of Canlaon and the Municipality of Vallehermoso were previously declared under a State of Calamity.

Citing Item No. 4(a)(iii) of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Memorandum Order No. 60 dated June 17, 2019, which states that when two or more municipalities or cities are affected by a disaster, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan may declare the entire province under a State of Calamity, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council recommended this broader declaration due to the eruption's adverse impacts.

The motion to declare Negros Oriental under a State of Calamity was made by Hon. Kit Marc B. Adanza and seconded by Hon. Julius C. Sabac. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan subsequently resolved to declare the province under a State of Calamity, reflecting the need for swift and coordinated emergency response measures. The resolution, documented as Resolution No. 1329, was approved and signed by both Vice Governor Jaime L. Reyes and Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, indicating a united effort to address this crisis and ensure the safety of residents.

Provincial Secretary Geoffrey P. Villahermosa certified the correctness of the resolution, highlighting the urgent need for disaster preparedness and community support in light of ongoing volcanic activity. As the situation develops, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders and safety protocols.

PRESS RELEASE - OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

January 11, 2025

Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno has appealed to all residents affected by the potential eruption of Kanlaon Volcano, particularly in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, and Canlaon City, to heed official warnings.

He emphasized that “lives are far more important than properties and livelihood.”

Nepomuceno urged communities to prepare for the worst-case scenario, stating, “I appeal to all residents, even those outside the six-kilometer extended danger zone, to take this situation seriously and evacuate immediately. We want no casualties in the event of an eruption.”

Nepomuceno also warned that “no responders will attempt to get inside the danger zones to execute rescue operations should an eruption occur. It is crucial for everyone’s safety to evacuate now.”

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has issued a crucial advisory indicating heightened ground deformation at the volcano.

Monitoring data from the Kanlaon Volcano Network (KVN) reveals significant inflation in the middle to upper sections of the volcano’s eastern edifice, evident since the evening of January 10.

Signs of an imminent eruption

Electronic tilt measurements recorded by the Upper Pantao Observation Station, located at 1,056 meters elevation, showed an abrupt increase in inflationary tilt starting at 7:20 PM, suggesting sudden pressurization within the volcano.

In addition, Electronic Distance Meter (EDM) measurements have tracked inflation on the southeastern flank since late December 2024, alongside a deflation trend on the western flank that began in early January 2025.

These patterns closely mirror those recorded prior to the December 9 eruption, which resulted in significant ashfall and local evacuations.

A concerning drop in sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions was recorded recently, declining from an average of 5,763 tonnes per day to just 2,029 tonnes on January 9. This reduction further supports the possibility of an impending eruption, reflecting changes in the volcano’s magmatic system.

In response to these developments, PHIVOLCS has raised the alert level to 3, indicating magmatic unrest and a heightened risk of sudden explosive eruptions. Communities within a six-kilometer radius of the summit are urgently advised to evacuate due to the potential for pyroclastic density currents, ballistic projectiles, ashfall, and lava flows.

Local government units and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) councils are advised to vigilantly monitor weather conditions, especially in the event of heavy rainfall that could generate lahars and sediment-laden streamflows in channels draining the southern flanks of the volcano. Specifically, barangays of La Castellana and Canlaon City, which have previously been impacted by pyroclastic density currents, as well as barangays downstream that experienced lahars and muddy streamflows in June 2024, could be at risk of channel-confined lahars if heavy rains occur.

Civil aviation authorities have been alerted to prevent flights near the volcano, as ash clouds from any sudden eruption could pose serious hazards to air traffic. As the situation develops, DOST-PHIVOLCS is committed to maintaining close surveillance of Kanlaon Volcano and will communicate any significant changes to the public and concerned stakeholders.

Communities are urged to remain prepared, as the volcano’s current activity indicates the potential for a similar surge in eruptive events, underscoring the urgent need for readiness in the face of nature’s unpredictability.

PRESS RELEASE - OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

April 6, 2025

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) strongly condemns the inappropriate use of the Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS) for political campaigning. This system is designed exclusively for issuing life-saving alerts during emergencies, such as earthquakes, typhoons, and other public safety threats. Utilizing it for political messages not only undermines its critical purpose but also risks desensitizing the public to genuine emergencies, potentially endangering lives.

Recently, we have received multiple reports from residents in certain provinces who reported receiving ECBS alerts that included political content urging them to vote for specific candidates. These messages, designed to mimic urgent emergency notifications, create confusion and may lead to complacency during real crises.

Key Findings:
Telecommunications Providers:
Globe Telecom and Smart Communications have confirmed that they do not utilize the ECBS for non-emergency messages and have not sent any political campaign alerts.

It is crucial to emphasize that none of these telecommunications providers offer ECBS services to private individuals or companies for any purpose other than genuine emergencies.

OCD Commitment:
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the existing ECBS will remain steadfast in their mission to deliver timely and accurate alerts related to disasters and public safety threats. The misuse of this system for political gain is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

We have referred this matter to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for appropriate investigation and action. The OCD is actively coordinating with relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate these incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any further misuse of the ECBS. Together, we can protect the integrity of our emergency alert systems and ensure they serve their intended purpose—keeping the public safe.

PRESS RELEASE
OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE
April 16, 2025

OCD Regional Offices, RDRRMCs, and NDRRMOC on Heightened Alert This Holy Week

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) regional offices, in coordination with the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Councils (RDRRMCs) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (NDRRMOC), have elevated their alert levels in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure public safety during the Holy Week observance.

As of 6 p.m. yesterday, a blue alert has been issued for the NDRRMOC and the regions of CAR, I, II, III, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, CARAGA, and BAR. The National Capital Region (NCR) will be under blue alert from 5 p.m. today, April 16, until 8 a.m. on April 21, Monday.

The blue alert signifies a heightened readiness for potential slow-onset hazards or escalating situations, necessitating the preparedness of selected personnel. Key personnel from the OCD, supported by Detailed Duty Officers (DDOs), will be on duty at the NDRRMOC.

Regions V and VI are currently on red alert due to potential threats from Mt. Mayon and Mt. Kanlaon, as well as other weather disturbances expected during the Lenten season. This red alert status is the highest level activated to address ongoing or imminent emergencies, requiring immediate staffing and interagency coordination.

Uniformed personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Philippine National Police (PNP), along with representatives from various government agencies—including the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, Department of Education, Department of Public Works and Highways, and Department of Energy—will deploy DDOs at the NDRRMOC. These personnel will maintain a 24-hour duty rotation throughout this emergency period.

NDRRMC Executive Director and Office of Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Ariel F. Nepomuceno urges the public to exercise caution during this Lenten season. “While our authorities are on alert, we ask our kababayans to prioritize their safety and act with discipline during this time of reflection. Your cooperation is essential for a peaceful observance of the Holy Week,” Nepomuceno stated.

As of today, thousands of passengers are on the move through airports, road transport terminals, and seaports to take advantage of the Holy Week break.

Office of Civil Defense
Press Release
April 29, 2025

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Bicol Region is actively mobilizing support to assist Sorsogon Province in addressing the immediate needs of those affected by the recent phreatic eruption of Mount Bulusan. The response efforts are aligned with the whole-of-government approach mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., ensuring a unified and comprehensive response to this disaster.

Defense Secretary and NDRRMC Chairman Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. and OCD Administrator and NDRRMC Executive Director Undersecretary Ariel F. Nepomuceno are closely monitoring the situation and have assured that all necessary support will be provided to affected communities.

In support of the provincial government’s request, OCD Bicol has prepared a stockpile of 880 boxes of face masks, totaling 44,000 pieces, along with 2,000 hygiene kits, ready for distribution to evacuees. The provincial government has specifically requested 1,500 hygiene kits and 10,000 face masks to help maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of illness among displaced residents. Director Claudio Yucot assured that OCD Region V has the capacity to provide these critical non-food items and other aid as needed.

Moreover, the provincial government requested assistance in conducting aerial surveys to assess the damage caused by the ashfall. In response, Director Yucot facilitated with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to secure an air asset for aerial reconnaissance, which will help officials better understand the scope of the impact and coordinate relief efforts more effectively.

Yesterday, Regional Director Claudio Yucot, also the Chairperson of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Bicol, visited affected municipalities within Sorsogon. During his visit, he engaged with local officials and the Sorsogon PDRRM Council to review initial response actions and identify ongoing needs. He also inspected the evacuation center at Juban, Sorsogon, to evaluate the condition of displaced residents and ensure appropriate support is being provided.

The regional office continues to coordinate closely with PHIVOLCS Bulusan Observatory for the latest updates on the volcano’s activity. As of the most recent report, approximately 14,830 families, or around 74,209 individuals, have been affected by the eruption. Currently, 19 families—comprising 61 individuals—are staying in two evacuation centers. The response remains ongoing, with regular updates, advisories, and coordination with local government units and disaster response agencies to ensure a swift and effective response.

Prepositioned for immediate deployment are critical supplies including 888 N95 masks valued at over P1.2 million and 2,000 hygiene kits worth approximately P3.5 million. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has also mobilized additional resources, such as 2,000 family food packs valued at P1.78 million, along with tents, water containers, and hygiene kits. The Bureau of Fire Protection is continuing its road flushing operations to clear ash from major roads, while the Sorsogon PDRRMO has activated its Emergency Operations Center and is working with municipal disaster response teams to monitor and respond to evolving needs.

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Code White Alert, emphasizing the importance of health and safety protocols for the affected populations. Governor Boboy Hamor, together with OCD Bicol, calls on everyone to stay vigilant and follow safety advisories as relief and recovery operations proceed.

OCD Bicol remains committed to providing the necessary support and resources, working hand-in-hand with national agencies and local partners to ensure the safety and well-being of all those impacted by this natural calamity.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is reiterating its call for safety precautions in anticipation of heavy rainfall and rain-induced hazards following the development of a low-pressure area into a tropical depression, now named “Mirasol,” alongside other weather disturbances.

These weather disturbances are expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall in the coming days, increasing the risk of flooding, landslides, and other associated hazards in different parts of the country.

The OCD will raise its operations to Blue Alert status starting tomorrow morning in preparation for potential impacts of Tropical Depression Mirasol and other weather disturbances.

“The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center, manned by OCD personnel, will be placed on Blue Alert status to intensify monitoring and coordination regarding preparedness and response actions. The Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard will also be on duty at our Operations Center.” Civil Defense Administrator, Undersecretary Harold Cabreros said.

The OCD, in coordination with national and regional agencies, has already addressed possible scenarios including flooding, traffic disruptions, and other effects of severe weather.

Usec. Cabreros emphasized his call for the public to implement personal safety precautions.

“We urge the public to implement safety measures and remain vigilant by following warnings and advisories. Government preparedness is in place—but individual responsibility remains crucial,” he said.

The OCD also coordinates with various government agencies and uniformed services to ensure the readiness of response assets, personnel, and prepositioned relief goods. The NDRRMC Response Cluster remains on standby.

Meanwhile, to support public safety efforts, the OCD is disseminating warnings through multiple platforms, including social media.

“Public awareness is essential for preparedness action. Our focus is also to ensure that critical advisories are delivered immediately and reach the affected and vulnerable communities. This is being carried out with the support of regional and local authorities.” Usec. Cabreros added.

The OCD continues to monitor the situation and urges the public to stay informed through official government channels and other legitimate sources, as well as to prepare for the potential impacts of heavy rainfall.

Office of Civil Defense

Press Release
July 9, 2025

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) urges the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions as the Southwest Monsoon continues to bring rains and thunderstorms across parts of Luzon in the wake of Typhoon Bising.

Although Typhoon Bising re-entered and exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) between July 6 and 7 and is now well beyond the country’s monitoring domain, its lingering effects continue to enhance the monsoon. This has resulted in scattered rains, thunderstorms, and potential flash floods and landslides, particularly in Northern and Central Luzon and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

According to the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) in CAR, provinces like Apayao, Abra, and Benguet are currently experiencing cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms, while other areas may face isolated showers. The OCD urges residents in vulnerable areas to stay informed and follow local advisories.

In line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr.’s directive to safeguard public welfare, the OCD is closely coordinating with local government units (LGUs), PAGASA-DOST, and national agencies to sustain preparedness and response efforts. Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. supports this unified approach and calls on both the public and the uniformed services to rally behind government efforts for everyone’s safety.

OCD Officer-in-Charge Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV highlighted recent improvements in coordination, "Ang isang bagong ginawa natin sa pangunguna ni Secretary Teodoro ay ang pag-establish ng interagency coordination cell sa amin sa OCD, para face-to-face yung interaction and immediate decisions are made right there and then." This initiative aims to speed up agency responses during rapidly evolving situations.

The public is reminded to get weather updates only from official sources—PAGASA, OCD, and LGU bulletins. Spreading unverified information may cause panic. Everyone is also encouraged to keep emergency go-bags ready, containing essentials like water, non-perishable food, medicine, flashlights, batteries, hygiene items, important documents, and face masks. Being prepared can save lives and minimize disruption.

PRESS RELEASE - OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

September 23, 2025

As of noon on Tuesday, September 23, the Southwest Monsoon and Super Typhoon "Nando," now outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), have affected around 54,000 families or 192,000 individuals in 950 barangays across the regions of Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Cordillera Administrative Region ( CAR ), Western Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, National Capital Region (NCR), MIMAROPA, and Bicol.

Office of Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Harold Cabreros assured the public that government agencies are actively monitoring the situation and coordinating response efforts.

"The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (NDRRMOC) remains on Red Alert status. Our Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (IACC) has been activated for several days, and we are holding regular meetings to assess the situation and guide response operations. Our NDRRMC Chair, Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., has been personally visiting the operations center, leading the IACC, and guiding our regional counterparts and agencies," said Usec. Cabreros.

According to the latest reports today, the Southwest Monsoon and Super Typhoon "Nando" caused one fatality in Benguet due to a landslide. Additionally, two more fatalities have been reported in Aurora, attributed to fishing-related incidents during Tropical Cyclone Mirasol.

The Southwest Monsoon and STY "Nando" have also resulted in 13 injuries and five (5) missing persons. These reports of fatalities, injured individuals, and missing individuals are still under validation.

Meanwhile, the government has provided around PHP 6 million in assistance for the affected families, and relief operations are ongoing. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has assured that additional relief supplies are available for distribution and further augmentation as necessary.

The OCD continues to manage both the NDRRM Operations Center and the IACC, with the NDRRMC Chairperson Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. leading at the national level, while regional IACCs are overseen by OCD Regional Directors.

PRESS RELEASE - OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

December 23, 2024

In a critical meeting today, Task Force Kanlaon Chair Raul Fernandez, who is also the Director of the Office of Civil Defense Western Visayas, led the Regional Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (RIACC) to address the escalating volcanic activity at Mount Kanlaon. The meeting prompted immediate evacuation orders for residents within a 6-kilometer extended danger zone.

Attended by representatives from PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, DSWD FO, DILG, and other government agencies, the gathering underscored the urgent need for preparedness as ash emissions and tectonic earthquakes threaten local communities.

Key Updates from PHIVOLCS

During the meeting, PHIVOLCS presented findings from a December 12 aerial survey, highlighting ongoing ash emissions and low-frequency earthquakes that began at 11:45 AM today. The ash plume is directed west-northwest, potentially reaching Bacolod City and surrounding areas. Since June 3, 2024, a total of 2,181 tectonic earthquakes have been recorded, with inflation observed in the eastern and northeastern sectors since the third week of July, while deflation has occurred in the southeastern and western sectors since late November.

PHIVOLCS strongly recommended mandatory evacuations within the 6-kilometer radius, urging local government units (LGUs) and disaster officials to prepare for a potential escalation to Alert Level 4 should volcanic activity persist or worsen. This alert level could signal major ground deformation, which might not only affect the upper slopes but also areas farther away from the volcano, especially if an eruption occurs during intense rainfall, raising concerns about syn-eruption lahars.

Additionally, in the case of Pyroclastic Density Current (PDC) generation, the buffer zone around the 6-kilometer extended danger zone may be expanded to ensure public safety.

Weather Considerations

PAGASA provided weather updates indicating a trough bringing rains to Palawan and the Kalayaan Islands, while light rains and localized thunderstorms are expected near Mount Kanlaon over the next few days. Officials warned that ash emissions could reach Guimaras and other nearby areas.

Coordination Among Local Governments

During the meeting, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson emphasized maintaining evacuation protocols within the 6-kilometer extended danger zone without expanding it to 10 kilometers for now. LGUs were instructed to activate their contingency plans for worst-case scenarios. Task Force Kanlaon will also issue a resolution ensuring that all donations are checked in at the LGU following ICS guidelines for proper accounting and distribution.

Addressing Media Access Concerns

The meeting addressed concerns from media representatives regarding restricted access to evacuation centers. DSWD committed to issuing specific guidelines and a media pass to ensure journalists can responsibly cover the situation while protecting the rights of evacuees.

Emerging Health Risks

The Department of Health (DOH) reminded camp managers to be vigilant against potential food poisoning due to improper storage of food during the holiday season. DOH is prepared to provide medical assistance to evacuees, particularly for those remaining in Brgy. Yubo, La Carlota City.

Updates on Remaining Families

As reported by the 303rd Brigade, six individuals, including two persons with disabilities, remain in Brgy. Yubo. Others are staying in Brgy. Cabagnaan and Brgy. Sag-ang due to livelihood activities. Authorities are working to ensure their evacuation and accommodation in evacuation centers.

Future Planning and Resource Needs

Task Force Kanlaon will conduct ocular inspections of potential sites for accommodating evacuees and assess the needs of evacuation centers, which currently require functional portalets, diapers, and other resources. The DOH is coordinating to source these necessities, while procurement of generators will be managed by OCD.

As the situation develops, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders to ensure their safety amid the increasingly volatile conditions surrounding Mount Kanlaon. The Task Force will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.

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PRESS RELEASE - OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

December 26, 2024

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) will hold a crucial meeting tomorrow, December 27, to strengthen tsunami preparedness in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon.

Regional Directors from these areas will present their Contingency Plans and worst-case scenario strategies in response to the recent earthquakes in Ilocos Sur, which have heightened concerns about a potential tsunami.

USEC Ariel Nepomuceno, the OCD Administrator and Executive Director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), will lead the meeting, emphasizing the urgent need for effective contingency measures following a series of offshore earthquakes ranging from magnitudes of 1.8 to 5.0 at various depths along the Manila Trench. These seismic events pose a significant tsunami risk that could impact coastal communities within a rapid timeframe of 10 to 20 minutes.

Recognizing the heightened tsunami threat, Undersecretary Nepomuceno emphasized the urgent need to intensify the dissemination of early warning systems.

He stressed the importance of communicating tsunami risks in layman's terms to ensure public comprehension. “We must create a system where, when there is a final warning, the message is clear: run to higher ground, not to evacuation centers. This is crucial for effective response,” he stated.

He elaborated, "We need to rethink our approach. When a tsunami warning is issued, the instinctive action should be to seek higher ground. Many existing evacuation centers may not be safe in this context, and we