• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, in another Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) June 6, said that for flights near Mount Kanlaon in Negros, vertical limit should be 17,000 feet from surface.
The latest NOTAM is effective from 9:10 a.m. June 6 to 9 a.m. today, June 7.
“Mt. Kanlaon Volcano is currently at Alert Level 2, or increased unrest. Flight operators are strongly advised to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit due to the potential for sudden and hazardous steam-driven, or phreatic eruptions, which may pose a hazard to aircraft,” the CAAP advisory said.
The Department of Tourism, meanwhile, said all tourism sites and activities within Canlaon City in Negros Oriental are suspended.
Tourists, tourism-related establishments (TREs), and the general public are advised that entry to the Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park is strictly prohibited, and all tourism-related activities within the permanent danger zone are suspended, the DOT said in a statement.
Mt. Kanlaon is under Alert Level 2 since June 3, after an explosive eruption at its summit vent at 6:51 p.m. Monday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said. “There is current unrest driven by shallow magmatic processes that could eventually lead to further explosive eruptions, or even precede hazardous magmatic eruption.”
The Phivolcs said 27 volcanic quakes and 3,464 tonnes of sulfur dioxide (SO2) flux were logged as per the 24-hour monitoring June 6.
The DOT already tasked its offices in regions VI and VII to closely monitor developments and to make necessary preparations, as need arises. “The health and safety of our visitors and the local communities remain the top priority of the DOT during this time.”
For any inquiries or assistance needed during this period, the DOT Call Center 151-TOUR (8687) is available 24/7 daily and can provide reliable information and support for all tourism-related concerns, the agency added. | CGC
