• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Due to the continuing restiveness of Kanlaon Volcano, eleven tourism sites in La Carlota and La Castellana in Negros Occidental have been temporarily closed, according to Provincial Tourism Officer Cheryl Decena.
Mayor Rex Jalando-on also disclosed on Friday that the annual Pasalamat Festival of La Carlota City, scheduled for April 21 to 27, was postponed as they still confronting the problem of lack of potable water that has so far affected approximately 3,000 households, due to the ashfall from the recent eruption of the volcano.
Tourism sites that were temporarily closed are the Guintubdan Pavilion, Camp Sitio Maya, and the Haguimit Hilltop Resort in La Carlota City, as well as the Tambayan sa Calapnagan, Acantilado, Fabricanus Village, Natures View Café, Domeino Suites, Highland Vista Resort, La Blanca Resort, and 13th Café in La Castellana.
In previous months, the world renowned Bailes de Luces Festival in La Castellana was also cancelled by Mayor Alme Rhummyla Nicor Mangilimutan.
Trekking has been halted at the Magon-on Falls in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.
This followed the order of the Department of Tourism suspending all tourism activities near the volcano, including treks and visits to nearby destinations such as La Carlota City, Bago City, La Castellana, and other surrounding areas in Negros Occidental.
DOT also advised tour agencies to abide by the strict prohibition on entry into the 6-kilometer extended danger zone implemented by the local government of Canlaon City in Negros Oriental.
On the other hand, Provincial Department of Health officer Adrian Hort Ramos reported cases of acute respiratory infections and other diseases victimizing minors and adults staying at the evacuation centers, which he blamed on the ashfall.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, in an advisory issued on April 11, reported to have recorded 11 volcanic quakes and the emission of 1,959 tons of sulfur dioxide reaching as high as 150 meters, on Thursday.
Alert Level 3 remains hoisted over Kanlaon Volcano.*
