• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the national government remains committed to assisting communities affected by the continued unrest of Mount Kanlaon, following a recent meeting with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.
Lacson said Teodoro, who supervises the Office of Civil Defense, expressed deep concern over the rehabilitation efforts in areas affected by Kanlaon’s volcanic activity, particularly the municipality of La Castellana, which remains vulnerable should the volcano erupt again.
“The national government is committed to assist if Kanlaon erupts again,” Lacson said, noting that disaster preparedness and long-term recovery measures were among the key topics discussed during the meeting.
The governor said he informed Teodoro that the provincial government has already donated a property to La Castellana intended for the relocation of affected residents.
According to Lacson, the Defense chief welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation for the province’s proactive response.
“As to the rehabilitation, we informed him that the province has already donated to La Castellana a property for relocation. Secretary Teodoro was very happy,” he added.
However, Lacson noted that the development of permanent housing units will still require coordination with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).
He expressed hope that the agency would provide funding support for the construction of homes for displaced families.
“We hope DHSUD should put out some money for the building of houses,” Lacson added.*
