Kanlaon Volcano Eruption Sparks Forest Fires and Blankets Negros with Ashfall
A moderately explosive eruption from Kanlaon Volcano on Sunday evening has ignited forest fires on its slopes and unleashed a significant ashfall event, impacting numerous communities across Negros Island. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that the eruption occurred at approximately 6:07 PM, sending a towering ash plume five kilometers into the sky.
Widespread Impact Across Local Governments
The ash plume was carried by winds to the southeast and northeast, resulting in ashfall and intense sulfur odors affecting 54 barangays within ten local government units in Negros Occidental. The impacted areas include Binalbagan, La Castellana, Moises Padilla, Hinigaran, Isabela, San Carlos, Himamaylan, Kabankalan, Pontevedra, and Ilog. Additionally, ashfall was reported in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.
La Castellana Mayor Añejo Nicor stated that nearly 60% of their municipality, including the town proper, has been affected by the ashfall. In response to the hazardous conditions, class suspensions at all levels were implemented on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Himamaylan City, Moises Padilla, La Castellana, and Binalbagan as a precautionary measure.
Volcanic Activity and Ongoing Advisories
This event marks the third eruption of Kanlaon Volcano this year, following previous activities on February 19 and February 26. A subsequent ash emission was recorded at around 10:31 PM on Sunday. Phivolcs maintains the volcano at Alert Level 2 and continues to enforce a strict prohibition on entry within the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ).
Local officials have issued urgent advisories to residents. Canlaon City Mayor Jose “Batchuk” Cardenas urged calmness and alertness, confirming that rescue vehicles and emergency response teams are on standby. He recommended that residents wear face masks or cover their noses and mouths with damp cloths to protect against ash inhalation.
Community Responses and Health Precautions
In Moises Padilla, street dance rehearsals in Barangay 4 were temporarily halted after Mayor Ella Garcia-Yulo warned of health risks associated with ashfall, particularly respiratory issues. The widespread ashfall has raised concerns about air quality and public health, prompting communities to take immediate protective actions.
The combination of forest fires triggered by the eruption and the extensive ashfall underscores the ongoing volcanic hazards in the region. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of heeding official warnings and preparedness measures to ensure community safety.
