All forms of pilgrimage, trekking, and entry into Mount Kanlaon’s six-kilometer extended danger zone (EDZ) are now strictly prohibited following fresh ash emissions monitored from its summit crater on Monday and its Alert Level 3 status.
The ban is being firmly reiterated—especially during Holy Week, when religious treks are common—due to the active threat posed by the volcano. Authorities warned that violators could face legal consequences.
At 11:52 a.m. on April 14, Mt. Kanlaon emitted thick ash plumes reaching up to 800 meters high, drifting west-northwest and affecting nearby areas, including La Carlota City and Bago City. The emission lasted until 2:12 p.m., prompting warnings of possible ashfall.
The volcano discharged another 600-meter plume at 2:53 p.m. in the same direction.
Despite a pause in visible activity, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) stressed that Alert Level 3 remains in effect, indicating sustained magmatic unrest and the potential for sudden, hazardous eruptions.
“All activities within the danger zone are strictly prohibited. The volcano is restless, and any attempt to enter the area—whether for religious or recreational reasons—puts lives at serious risk,” said Phivolcs director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol.
Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers (LDRRMOs) in affected local government units have been ordered to activate their Incident Management Teams and maintain high-alert status to ensure swift response if conditions worsen.
Residents and visitors are urged to stay informed through official advisories and to take precautions, especially in areas susceptible to ashfall.
